Welcome to our Walking and Trekking brochure,
packed full of inspiring holidays which will enable
you to go walking in far-flung corners of the planet
as well as equally fascinating places a little closer
to home.
The beauty of walking is that you can really get up close to
the landscapes and culture of a place. We make the most of
this by offering a wide range of itineraries in some of the most
spectacular locations on the planet, from flower-filled meadows
to jagged mountain peaks and from tropical forests to shimmering
sands. Some trips are in UNESCO Natural Heritage sites.
Our holidays take you walking wherever you want to go. They
include the crystal clear lakes and rugged coastlines of Europe,
the biodiversity hotspots of Africa and the spice trails and souks
of the Middle East, the remote mountains of Asia and the Pacific
and the volcanic vistas and cloud forests of the Americas. You
can even go urban walking in the Big Apple or venture into
Venezuela, to territories virtually unknown to the outside world.
We have several new routes too, all tried and tested by our team
of experts.

PAGE

12
Middle
East
and
Africa

You haven’t truly seen a place unless you’ve met its people and
so we at Explore always take you one step further, offering you
trips which introduce you to the locals, their customs and way of
life. You can discover the warm hospitality of the Svantian people
in Georgia or taste the wine in Bordeaux and make orecchiette
pasta in Puglia for example.
We’ll give you rich experiences which you won’t get anywhere
else. Our Explore leaders not only look after the daily
arrangements of your holiday but they’ll also share their local
knowledge, to help make it special.
Enjoy walking with a small group or travel just with your family
and friends on our self-guided trips. The choice is yours.

PAGE

Ashley Toft
Managing Director

2

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

73

Asia and the Pacific

PAGE

86
Americas

The

PAGE

102
Self-Guided

General

Information

PAGE

122
or visit explore.co.uk

PAGE

132
3

Why Explore?
Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been operating adventurous and inspiring holidays for over 35 years.
In that time we have built up a wealth of travel expertise to draw upon.
Our team of dedicated walking experts are passionate about creating trips which take you through some of
the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most impressive landscapes and bring you into contact with local cultures and people.
We are proud to announce that 97% of our customers
would book with us again.
Independently verified reviews
September 2016

4

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

WHY EXPLORE?

ABOUT OUR WALKING AND TREKKING HOLIDAYS
Small, Sociable Groups
On our group trips there are generally around 10-13
people, with a maximum of 16, of all nationalities and
backgrounds. Usually half are travelling on their own
and the rest as couples or groups of friends. Enjoying
the walks and treks with like-minded people is part of
the experience. You’ll quickly find yourself making new
friends and enjoying the group camaraderie.

Explore Leaders
One of our expert Explore Leaders accompanies
all of our walking trips. Depending on the nature of
your walking holiday they may be leading the walks
themselves or accompanied by one or more specialist
trek guides. They are some of the best in the business
- the awards they’ve won prove it! They strive to ensure
your holiday goes without a hitch and their first-hand
knowledge of the routes and local customs means you
won’t miss anything. They will pace the walks so that
no one gets left behind and they’ll look after all the
background organisation.

Luggage
On practically all of our walking adventures you don’t
have to carry your main luggage – just a daypack for

your personal items such as a camera, sunscreen, wet
weather gear and water. The rest of your bags will either
be transferred by road – or will be carried by porters or
mules. The Trip Notes, which can be downloaded from
our website, provide more detailed information.

Trusted and ATOL Protected
2017 marks our 36th year operating adventure holidays.
In that time we have earned the trust of thousands of
customers who travel with us every year. For added
peace of mind, we are fully protected by ATOL so that
in the unlikely event of any problems with airlines or our
other travel partners, your payment is safe.

Loyalty Discounts
Over 60% of our customers have been on holiday with
us before and many travel with us repeatedly. As a way
of saying thank you, we offer our loyal customers the
following discounts:
Save 5% - when booking your 5th to 9th Explore trip
Save 10% - when booking your 10th and all subsequent
Explore trips
Please see explore.co.uk/loyaltydiscounts for more
information.

Price Guarantee
Once we have confirmed your booking we guarantee that the price won’t change. Unlike most other
travel companies, we won’t pass on any unexpected aviation, fuel or currency exchange surcharges
once your booking is confirmed.

or visit explore.co.uk

5

A World of Choice
With so many options, it can be hard to know where
to start. We’re here to help you choose the walking or
trekking holiday that’s perfect for you.
By using the information below and on the table opposite, you can narrow
down the choices to hone in on your perfect holiday based on how physically
demanding you want it to be and what type of accommodation you’d like to
stay in. If you need any help or advice, please give us a call.

Accommodation Grade

We’ve graded our walking and trekking holidays by taking into account daily walking distances, terrain,
the number of days of the trip spent walking, altitude and the amount of ascent and descent. When a trip
combines two different walking grades we use an intermediate grade e.g. Easy to Moderate. Each trip is
clearly marked with its grade. For more detailed information, see our Trip Notes which can be downloaded
from the trip pages of our website.

As a guide, we’ve allocated an
accommodation grade to all of our
trips. Standards will vary depending
on which country you are visiting
and on some trips a range of
accommodation grades are used.

Easy

E R AT

Moderate

Suitable for most people
Moderate graded walks
in good health, easy walks
are normally on good
are predominantly on good
paths and tracks at low
paths, at low altitude and
altitude (generally below
on undemanding terrain.
2,500m) and are suitable
You can expect to be
for fit and active people.
walking for 3-5 hours a day
You can expect to be
(including rest stops) with
walking 3-7 hours a day
plenty of non-walking time (including rest stops). Some
in the itinerary. Previous
walks may include some
walking experience is
fairly demanding ascents
not necessary.
and descents, so previous
experience is preferable
but not essential.

6

AL

L E N GI

N

OD

E

M

CH

EASY

G

Walk grade

TO

UGH

Challenging

Tough

Trekking days are
generally long (6-8 hours),
with some long, steep
ascents and descents and
sometimes at high altitude
(over 3,000m) or on more
difficult terrain. You need
to have a good level of
fitness and some extra
training before your trip
may be required; previous
trekking experience is
recommended.

Trekking days are long
(sometimes 9 hours or
more) and tough, with
difficult terrain often
including time at high
altitude (over 3000m).
You should expect some
demanding ascents and
descents. You will need to
be physically very fit
and a confident,
experienced trekker.

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

Simple
No-frills accommodation which
includes mountain huts, camping,
small family-run hotels and
guesthouses, berths on sleeper trains,
boat cabins and rooms in village
houses. Sleeping arrangements and
amenities are simple and bathrooms
may be shared.
Standard
Our standard, mid-range
accommodation offers a good level
of service, often with other amenities
such as a restaurant, bar, garden or
swimming pool. Generally rooms will
have en-suite facilities.
Premium
Our premium accommodation is
chosen for its comfort, character,
location or local importance.

On Foot in the Caucasus
Walking the Corfu Trail (South)
Walking in Crete
On Foot in Kerala
Hiking in the Dolomites
Trails of Hidden Tuscany
Spice Trails of Petra
Madagascar Wilderness Trek
Marrakech and the High Atlas
Annapurna Panorama

Portugal
(Madeira)

Levada Trails of Madeira

Cambodia

Cambodian Trails - Angkor
and Beyond

TWC

12

98

Cuba

Cuba Highlights on Foot

SCU

8

110

Estonia - Latvia
- Lithuania

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania on Foot

ELL

8

57

France

Bordeaux to the Mediterranean Walks and Wine

BWW

9

37

Italy
Italy
Italy
Italy

A Taste of Amalfi
A Taste of Emilia Romagna
A Taste of Liguria and Tuscany
A Taste of Puglia

TOA
TOER
TOLT
TOP

8
8
8
8

56
55
55
56

Italy

NEW A Taste of Veneto - Lake Garda
to Venice

TOV

8

54

New Zealand

Walking in New Zealand

WZN

20

100

Portugal

Remote Coastal Trails
of Portugal

POR

8

17

Spain

South Africa

NEW KwaZulu-Natal - Drakensbergs
and Wildlife Safari
Camino de Santiago
NEW Galicia’s Wild Coast - Costa
da Morte
On Foot in the Picos de Europa
Snowshoeing in the Picos de Europa
Moorish Trails

The Austrian Tyrol
Walks and Coastal Towns of Croatia
Highlights of Mont Blanc
Carcassonne to Collioure - Trails of the
Secret Riviera
Walking in Provence
Greek Cruise and Island Walking
Lake Como Walking
Wine Trails of Classic Tuscany
Amalfi Coast Walking
On Foot in Puglia and Basilicata
Sicilian Trails
On Foot in Rome and Umbria
Trails of the Cinque Terre and Liguria
NEW Walking Montenegro and the
Croatian Islands
On Foot in Northern Cyprus
Azores Island Hopping
Walking in the Sierra Aracena
Southern Spain - Walks and Wine
NEW Vietnam on Foot
Yellowstone and Western Trails

Walk grade - Moderate
Albania
Andorra - Spain

Walking Albania
Walking in the Andorran Pyrenees

Burma
(Myanmar)

Hidden Trails of Burma

HW

14

95

Canada
China

Walking in the Rockies
Walk the Great Wall

WRK
WG

13
10

104
96

Costa Rica Nicaragua

Volcanoes and Tropical Forests

NCR

15

109

Cuba
Cyprus
France

Revolutionary Trails of Cuba
Walking in Cyprus
French Pyrenees to Carcassonne

Self-Guided Walking trips
If you want to experience an area independently and at your own pace, we
have a range of self-guided walking trips.

Start your holiday on any day of the week and extend it if you wish to. Your accommodation is booked and your
luggage transported between night stops. Walk when you want to and explore the area using our detailed route
notes and maps.
Getting to your destination
We recommend the most suitable
airports or train stations to use
for each trip and also the latest
arrival/departure times (to fit with
the public transport options). We
also provide detailed information
to assist you in reaching your start
hotel and leaving your end hotel
by public transport. Alternatively
we can arrange private transfers.

Your luggage
Your main luggage will be
transferred between hotels for
you. All you need to carry is a
daypack with your essentials in
it (water, camera, sunscreen etc).
You’ll be reunited with the rest of
your belongings when you reach
your next night’s accommodation.

Accommodation
Our hotels are hand-picked for
their character, comfort and warm
welcome. We use a wide range

8

of accommodation from simple
mountain huts to four-star hotels
with en-suite facilities. In many
places we stay for two nights,
giving you the choice of doing a
full or half-day circular walk, or
taking a break to go sightseeing
or chill out.

Finding your way
We’ll give you easy-to-follow,
detailed route notes and maps so
that you can find your way. There
are often choices given which
allow you to extend a walk or go
via a more challenging route. To
ensure you get the most out of
your stops as well, we’ll provide
you with useful information. Our
insider tips may include ‘must
sees’ or where to find the best
cappuccinos!
See pages 120 - 131 for our
collection of self-guided
walking trips.

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

FLIGHTS

Fly me from...
If you would like to book a flightinclusive holiday with Explore, we are
delighted to be able to offer you a
range of flight options.
We can organise flights from most of the UK’s regional
airports and from Dublin. These are either direct flights
or via an onward connecting point to your final
destination. Flight-inclusive packages booked with
Explore are fully bonded. This means that we will
manage any changes required in the event of any
changes to your holiday or airline schedule changes
after you have booked. If however you choose to book
your own flights, you are responsible for the associated
costs of any changes.
Group Flights
On many holidays we hold a small group of competitively priced seats
with a specified airline which exactly fit the departure and return dates
and times. Our flight inclusive holiday price includes these flights. These
flights will depart from a London airport however regional connections
may also be available. When you choose to travel on a group flight you
will pay only the deposit for your holiday at the time of booking and we
manage any changes thereafter.

Contract Flights
Where we do not hold group flights, we negotiate rates with a number
of preferred airline partners. These fares are highly competitive and are
a great option if you are considering extending your stay before or
after your trip. You may be required to pay a higher than normal
deposit for your holiday in order to secure the best available fare to
match your requirements.

‘Best fare of the day’
We will seek to match the best fares available in the open market
including those from low cost carriers like such as easyJet. These
fares fluctuate on a daily basis and an additional non-refundable
payment of the full airfare will be required.
For each of the above options, Explore charge a small
administration fee. Once you have booked a flight with us as part
of your holiday, we are responsible for managing any changes that
might affect your flight. In most instances, flight upgrades may also be
available – please ask us for details when making your flight inclusive
holiday booking.

Booking your own flights
You may prefer to purchase your own flights and book with Explore on
a ‘Land Only’ basis. Whist you may get the best available flight price,
we need to make you aware of the responsibilities that this carries:

n Your flight ticket cost is not necessarily bonded in the event of either
airline failure or the failure of the travel agent you booked it through.
And just like our ‘Best fare of the day’ airfares you will usually have
to pay in full at time of booking.

n In the event that your trip is amended or cancelled, you will be liable
for the cost of any changes or cancellations that could affect your
flight ticket which may have limited, or no refund value.

n If you are planning to book ‘Land Only’ we strongly recommend that
you purchase flights (or other associated travel services) that are
flexible and refundable.

or visit explore.co.uk

9

CONNECT WITH US

Connect with us

One of the best things about travel is that it gives you loads of interesting stories
and pictures to share with your friends and family. Connect with us on social media
to meet like minded travellers, get expert travel tips and inspiration, and share
your experiences with us.
Tag or mention us in your posts so we can share your incredible stories.

Calendar
photo
competition
To be in with the chance of seeing
one of your photographs featured
in the annual Explore calendar,
simply pick out your favourite highresolution snaps and email them to
marketing@explore.co.uk with the
subject line ‘Calendar Competition’.
Don’t forget to include your name
and some information about where
the photo was taken!

The Explore Ethos
People choose to travel with Explore for many reasons. Our original, inspiring and
great value trips, the service provided by our multi-award winning leaders and the
knowledge that Explore has taken care of all the organisation, planning and logistics.

Going local...

Caring for our Planet

We really believe in taking you to the heart of the country you are
visiting while also helping improve the lives of the local communities
we visit. This philosophy has earned the trust of thousands of
customers who travel with us year after year.

At Explore we’re passionate about enriching
lives through adventure travel. Take a look at
what we’ve been up to over the last 12 months.

n 95% of our Explore Leaders are from the place you are visiting, ensuring you
experience the country through the eyes of a local.

n We generally stay in locally-owned hotels and on some trips, also homestays, to

Helped our staff to

REBUILD THEIR HOMES

better understand and learn about local culture.

in Nepal after the earthquake

n We support the Born Free Foundation and Mahouts Foundation and are passionate
about the fair treatment of animals on our trips.

n We are preventing people from cutting down the Amazon rainforest by working with
local communities through Cool Earth.

Explore Leader Awards
Our amazing Explore Leaders are crucial to the success of our group holidays.
In order to recognise the contribution of the best of the best, we would like to
encourage you to vote for your leader in our annual Explore Leader Awards. The
winning leaders receive a cash prize as well as a bursary to spend on a charity
of their choice plus the chance to visit the UK. So if your leader has made your
holiday extra special, please take a few moments to vote for them by visiting
explore.co.uk/leaderawards

or visit explore.co.uk

Given easter eggs, sheets and towels,

In the last year Explore has

120KG OF FOOD

DONATED £56,000 TO...

to charities local to explore HQ

EXPLORE ARE PROTECTING

...Over 45 different charities and
projects all over the world

Stopped all elephant riding on our trips

100,000 TREES

by working with local communities in the
Amazon Rainforest

and continue to work with Mahouts to

ENSURE BEST ANIMAL PRACTICE

11

Europe
You don’t have to travel far to experience the great
walks and wealth of choice on offer in Europe.
Enjoy views of turquoise seas whilst strolling along
the beautiful coastlines; gaze into crystal-clear,
emerald lakes and refresh yourself with the spray
from mountain waterfalls.
If you want tranquillity, get right off the beaten track
hiking to remote monasteries and rocky outcrops.
Explore the culture - visiting historic towns with
lively markets or sampling the delicious regional
specialities like farmhouse cheese and fine wines.
Ramble through ancient olive groves and relax at
riverside tavernas, discover local chateaux and
granite cave bodegas. You’ll definitely want to come
back for more!

Insider View
“You just can’t beat Europe for sheer
diversity of walking options. From
easy rambles along breathtakingly
beautiful coastlines to rolling
vineyards, (perhaps sampling a
glass of wine or two along the way!),
to challenging mountain trekking in
the Alps or Carpathians. There really is something to suit
everyone, and there’s always somewhere new to explore.
For 2017 we’re introducing hikes in Galicia along northern
Spain’s wild Atlantic coast, the Canary Island jewel of La
Palma and a trip that combines some of the best walking
in Montenegro and Croatia’s islands.”
Caroline Phillips,
Walking Programme Manager at Explore

Some great walking highlights especially the
Sete Cidades and the Caldeira de Cima walks.

Robert Shepherd

ATLANTIC
OCEAN
Biscoitos

Quatro
Ribeiras

Caves

Caldiera
1043m FAIAL
Optional
Walk

HORTA

VELAS

MADALENA
PICO

Pico Alto 2350m
Optional walk

0 km

SAO JORGE

AZORES
(Portugal)

Day 2

PRAIA DA
VITORIA

TERCEIRA
SAO MIGUEL
Furnas
Lake

Sete Cidades
Crater lakes

PONTA
DELGADA

30 km

0 km

2.5hrs

Day 4

4.5km

2.5hrs

Day 5

7.5km

2.5hrs

Day 6

12.7km

3.5hrs

Day 7

Angra

Lajes
Optional Whale
watching

8km

Day 3

Day 8

12km

4hrs

Day 9

17km

6hrs

Day 10

5km

2hrs

Day 11

6.5km

2hrs

Day 12

8km

Day 13

5.5km

7hrs
2.5hrs

Optional Walks

30 km

Bathed in the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, these nine volcanic islands rise up from the mid-Atlantic ridge. On a series of easy walks we
explore five of these unspoilt islands: Sao Miguel, Terceira, Sao Jorge, Pico and Faial. We discover crater lakes, thermal springs, deep gorges
and craggy coastlines. There are also opportunities to take boat trips in search of whales and spend time in picturesque fishing villages.

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3/4

5

6

7

8/9

10

11

12

13

14

Join trip
in Ponta
Delgada on
Sao Miguel
Island.

On Sao Miguel.
Take a walk
around ‘Sete
Cidades’
colourful crater
lakes.

Fly to Terceira
Island. Visit
the historic
Renaissance
city of Angra
do Heroismo.

Walk to
Biscoitos.
Chance to
swim in lava
rock pools and
visit the wine
museum.

Fly to Sao
Jorge Island.
Time to
explore the
small harbour
town of Velas.

Walk down
Caldeira de
Cima Gorge
to the coastal
plains. Free
day to explore
the island.

Take ferry to
Pico Island.
Rest of day
to explore
the small
fishing port of
Madalena.

Walk along
south coast
to Lajes.
Optional whale
watching.

Free day.
Option to climb
Pico Volcano
(2350m).

Ferry to Faial
Island. Free
afternoon to
explorethe
island either
on foot or by
taxi tour.

Trip ends
in Horta, Faial
Island.

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

14

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

Insider
View
“The Azores are stunningly
beautiful, each distinctly different
and with their own atmosphere;
from the bustle of Ponta Delgada
on Sao Miguel, to the relaxed
beachfront cafés in Praia da Vitoria
on Terceira and the maritime
feel of Horta on Faial. For me
highlights included a traditional
meal cooked in thermal pits (Sao
Miguel), Algar do Cavao - the only
volcanic pit of its type in the world
you can go in (Terciera), swimming
by dolphins (Pico), unique rock
vineyards (Pico), and standing on
land that only erupted from the
sea in 1958! (Faial). I also really
enjoyed the walking, particularly
through the hills and along the
coastal paths of Sao Jorge and
the optional challenge of climbing
Pico Volcano. The Azores has lots
to offer amongst its green hills and
blue oceans!”
Sam Buck,
Adventure Travel Consultant
at Explore

Following Madeira’s unique network of narrow irrigation channels (known as ‘levadas’) and ancient footpaths, this trip incorporates some of
the best walking trails on this beautiful volcanic island. Discover rocky shorelines, waterfalls and stunning mountain vistas. Hike to Madeira’s
highest peak Ruivo (1862m), and spend time absorbing the delights of the laid-back capital, Funchal.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Join trip
in Funchal,
Madeira’s main
city, on the
island’s south
coast.

Walk though
UNESCO
protected forest
along a levada
to Caldeira
Verde waterfall.
Descend to
Ilha.

Follow the
‘Five Levadas
Trail’ down
from Paul
do Serra to
Florencas
via Riscoe
Waterfalls.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

16

Stunning
Walk from
Free day
coastal views as Pico Arieiro via
in Funchal.
we walk along
part of ‘The
Opportunity to
Calheta Levada Balcony Walk’
go whale and
to Paul do Mar. to the summit dolphin spotting,
of Pico Ruivo
or relax and
(1862m).
explore Funchal.

Based in the historically important small coastal town of Sagres, we explore this remote corner of Portugal. Following beautiful coastal paths
we discover impressive cliffs, quiet sandy beaches and remote island villages. We also walk the last section of the long distance path ‘Rota
Vicentina’ to Cabo Sao Vicente, the lighthouse at the most south-westerly point of Europe, and pass the remarkable rock formations at Ponta
de Piedade south of Lagos. En route we sample the delicious local cuisine and crisp wines.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Sagres, a
small historic
coastal town
in south-west
Portugal.

Hike from
Carrapateira
along the
coast and
inland
through the
hills to pretty
Bordeira.

Walk along the
coast to the
beautiful and
quiet beach of
Praia Zavial.

Follow the
last section of
Rota Vicentina
to Cabo Sao
Vicente,
Europe’s most
south-westerly
point.

Free day.
Opportunity
to go dolphin
watching,
further explore
on foot or relax
on a local
beach.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY SEP OCT NOV

Explore old
Coastal walk
village and
from Burgau to
remains of
Lagos via the
castle at
interesting rock
Aljezur. Walk
formations
to stunning
at Ponta da
Arrifana beach.
Piedade.

Trip ends
in Sagres.

ACCOMMODATION

Cliff-top hotel
Hotel Navigator is situated on cliffs overlooking the
sea, just a short walk from Mareta beach and the
centre of Sagres. It has a swimming pool to relax
by, and an indoor lounge. The apartment rooms
are spacious and have a kitchenette, sitting area
and small balcony. A buffet breakfast is included.

Scenic countryside, historical cities
and good food and wine.
Stewart and Miriam Bruyn

PORTUGAL
PORTO

Wine Tasting
Peso da
Régua

LAMEGO

Historic Village

El Toro
Wine Tasting

Boat trip

Mirando do Douro
Vila Real
Visit Mateus Palace
Fornillos

PEÑAFIEL

Zamora

Sepulveda
Duraton River
Natural Park

FERMOSELLE

Wine Tasting
Arribes del Duero
Natural Park

DAILY DISTANCES

Medieval Town
Wine Tasting

SPAIN

SEGOVIA

3hrs

10km

3hrs

Day 6

Guadarrama N.P

MADRID

60 km

10km

Day 4
Day 5

UNESCO
World Heritage City

0 km

Day 3

Walking Tour

Day 7

10km

3hrs

Day 8

13km

4hrs

Day 9

4km

1.5hrs

This unique two country trip provides a fascinating journey from Madrid to Porto through the Ribera del Duero region of Spain and the Douro
winelands of Portugal. We sample regional vintages at local bodegas and enjoy the countryside, exploring national parks and river gorges.
Along the way we find beautiful historic cities full of culture, along with picturesque villages. Ideal for those who enjoy wine, culture and easy
countryside walks this journey ventures off the beaten track and showcases a less visited part of Europe.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

Join trip
in Madrid,
Spain’s
fascinating
capital city
located on the
Manzanares
River.

The Canary Islands offer some of the best walking anywhere in southern Europe. The volcanic island of Gran Canaria in particular offers far
more than the beaches it is best known for. Staying off the beaten track in Aguimes on the eastern side and La Aldea de San Nicolas on the
western side of the island, we discover dramatic volcanic landscapes, steep gorges, high peaks, semi-tropical valleys and unspoilt hillside
villages as we explore the ‘Gran Isla’ by foot.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Aguimes,
a traditional
hill town just
inland from the
east coast.

Circular
walk from
Aguimes up
to Degollada
Bermeja and
the stunning
Guayadeque
Canyon.

On this walking trip to the Canary Islands we explore the pretty island of La Gomera and the perfect volcanic cone of El Teide on Tenerife.
On La Gomera we hike through varied and dramatic scenery including beautiful steep-sided valleys, quiet villages, black sand beaches and
the verdant cloudforest of Garajonay National Park. The trip ends with a walk in El Teide National Park taking in the spectacular views of this
iconic Tenerife landmark.

Ascend Alto
de Garajonay
(1484m). Hike
through the
cloudforest
of Garajonay
National Park.

Walk from
Hermigua
to the black
volcanic sand
beach of Playa
Caleta.

Free day to
explore the
local beaches
or coastal
paths.

Ferry to Los
Cristianos
(Tenerife).
Drive to El
Teide for a
scenic walk on
the volcano.

Trip ends
in El Medano.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

20

JAN FEB MAR APR OCT NOV DEC

DAY

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

‘

‘

A great destination for
some winter sun and
fantastic scenery!
Karen Sargent

EUROPE

Insider
View
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hiking on La Gomera and Tenerife
was my first walking trip and I
thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
La Gomera is a quiet unspoilt island
that lies just to the west of Tenerife
and provides a complete contrast
to the other Canary Islands. Hiking
through the varied valleys covered
in lush vegetation and interspersed
with volcanic rock formations
each one different to the next, is
a pleasure. Stunning views across
the island give you occasional
glimpses of El Teide volcano
on Tenerife, and to black sandy
beaches. As a first time walker I
found the walks on well maintained
tracks and paths rewarding but not
too challenging, certainly suitable
for anyone with reasonable fitness.
La Gomera really is a hidden gem
and well worth a visit.â&#x20AC;?
Andrew Prior,
IT Programmer at Explore

Get off the beaten track and discover the volcanoes and cloudforests of the verdant
Canary Island of La Palma. Hike to the heart of the
Tenerife
South Airport
Los Cristianosand take in stunning views of this and the west of the island from
magnificent crater-like Caldera de Taburiente through Angustias Gorge,
San Miguel
Bejenado Peak (1857m). To the south hike to the rocky coastline of Fuencaliente.
In the evening explore the ‘old town’ and restaurants of
de Abona
LA GOMERA
Los Llanos.

DAY

EL HIERRO 1
El Golfo
Bay

Join trip
at La Palma
airport. Drive
to Los Llanos
on the western
side of the
island, our base
for the week.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Drive south to
Los Canarios.
Walk via
Teneguia
volcano to
the coast and
Fuencaliente
lighthouse.

Hike to
Bejenado peak
(1857m) for
views across
the impressive
crater-like
Caldera de
Taburiente.

Trip ends
at La Palma
airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

22

JAN FEB MAR APR NOV

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Valle Aridane
Our hotel is situated in the heart of Los Llanos, on
the west side of La Palma. It is well positioned for
accessing great hiking, and the roof terrace has
views to the nearby mountains. It is also close
to the ‘old town, and bars and restaurants. The
nearest beach is three kilometres away.

Explore the rugged terrain of Mallorca’s spectacular Tramuntana mountain range from Port de Soller to the 18th century town of Pollenca,
including the Victoria Peninsula. We walk along coastal pathways and historic merchant routes to traditional villages and beautiful lakes, and
are rewarded with panoramic views of the coast and surrounding mountains. We also experience staying in a remote 13th century monastery
in Lluc.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Port de
Soller, a
harbour town
surrounded
by the
Traumuntana
Mountains.

Walk from the
picturesque
village of
Deia through
olive groves
and along the
coast to Port
de Soller.

Circular hike
from the
rural town of
Valldemossa
along the
‘Archduke’s
Trail’.

Take a historic
tram to Soller.
Walk via
Biniaraitx
village to
Cuber Lake.
Drive to Lluc
Monastery.

Follow an
ancient
merchant
route out of
the mountains
towards 18th
century town
of Pollenca.

Some of Spain’s best food and wine can be found in the provinces of the Basque Country, La Rioja and Catalonia. On this journey from Bilbao
to Barcelona we blend easy walks through wonderful scenery with wine tasting for a great introduction to the quality wine regions of La Rioja,
Montsant, Priorat and Cava. There is also a special focus on local cuisine along the way, from the ever-innovative Basques, to La Rioja tapas,
to the stylish and modern Catalans. The walks are also varied and rewarding, including part of the Camino de Santiago.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

Join trip
in the Basque
city of Bilbao,
home of the
magnificent
Guggenheim
Museum.

Coastal walk
overlooking
the Bay
of Biscay.
Opportunity
to try local
tapas.

Introduction
to Rioja wine
making at
Vivanco
vineyard.
Walk section
of Camino de
Santiago.

Visit the
impressive
Freixenet
winery, famous
for it’s Cava.
Walk along
Montserrat
ridge.

Explore
Barcelona,
including the
old quarter.
See Gaudi’s
influence on
the city.

Trip ends
in Barcelona.

Drive to
Continue
Stroll through Walk to Cartuia
Zaragoza,
through
vineyards to
Monastery.
home of
Catalonia to the
Poblet
Taste Priorat
El Pilar
medieval town
Monastery
wines at
Cathedral, and of Montblanc. (UNESCO). Visit
Scaladei
on to historic
Enjoy a
Mas Foraster
bodega. Learn
Alquezar.
traditional local
winery.
about olive oil
meal.
production.

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP OCT

24

DAY

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

EUROPE

Insider
View
“Our Wine, Walks and Tapas trip
is a fantastic choice for anyone
who’s after a varied holiday and
loves Spanish cuisine and wine;
with some easy walking thrown
in for good measure! Between
sampling ‘Pintxos’ (tapas) and
tasting the famed Rioja produced at
the different bodegas, you’ll burn
off those calories with the varied
and picturesque walks. Follow a
section of the Camino de Santiago
and enjoy the views across the
Bay of Biscay on a coastal trail.
Walk to the village of Siurana via
an old mule path for stunning views
over the reservoir and surrounding
mountains and vineyards. To top
this trip off, there’s time spent
discovering the cultural gems
of Barcelona and the pretty old
quarter in Bilbao.”
Olivia Lewis,
PR Executive at Explore

Following in the footsteps of countless pilgrims since the 9th century, we walk the legendary route Camino Frances (French Way) to Santiago
de Compostela - the reputed resting place of Saint James, where we claim our pilgrims certificate. We walk along the most scenic sections
between Leon and Santiago: across the high plains of the Castilian Meseta and into the Galician Mountains. We discover Gothic cathedrals,
pass through medieval villages and climb to the Iron Cross (1482m) along the way.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

Join trip
at Madrid
airport. Drive
to Leon,
historic city
and pilgrimage
waypoint.

Following
scallop shell
waymarkings
climb to Iron
Cross (1482m),
highest point
of the trail.

Walk through
the Galician
Mountains to
the historic
mountain
village of O
Cebreiro.

Continue
through
the verdant
Galician hills
passing the
famous 100km
marker.

Cross the last
high pass
(722m) and
descend to
Palas de Rei,
an important
pilgrim town.

First view
of Santiago
Cathedral
from Monte
Gozo. Walk
into the city.
Claim pilgrim
certificate.

Guided tour
of cathedral.
Time to
explore
the city’s
magnificent
architecture.

Trip ends
in Santiago.

Continue
Cross the River Pass through
through rural
Iso to Arzua
woodland,
Galicia. Cross
where the
local
the medieval Camino Frances
pilgrimage
bridge to
is joined by
sites and small
Melide, famous another camino, villages to A
for its cuisine.
Primitivo.
Rua.

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP OCT

26

DAY

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

Insider
View
“Walking the Camino de Santiago
can seem hard at times, but it
is so rewarding. The changing
scenery as you walk through the
lush Galician countryside, the
camaraderie with fellow ‘peligrinos’
and the feeling of taking ‘time out’
all contribute to a truly memorable
experience, as does the sense of
achievement as you reach each
night’s accommodation. Arriving
in Santiago felt like crossing the
finishing line of a marathon - a
real high. This bustling, historic,
city is a great place to relax after
claiming your pilgrim’s certificate,
the ‘compostela’, and visiting the
cathedral. Take time to explore, try
more of the delicious local food
and listen to Galician bagpipes.”
Andy Jackson,
Specialist Travel Consultant
at Explore

This week-long trekking adventure takes us into the beautiful high mountain scenery of Picos de Europa National Park. We explore the area
in depth with walks in the unspoilt and wild landscapes of the western, central and eastern massifs. We base ourselves for six nights in Sotres
- the highest inhabited village in the Picos. This tour showcases some of Spain’s finest scenery, including a hike to the base of the iconic peak
Naranjo de Bulnes, and a trek along cliff-cut pathways through the imposing Cares Gorge - over 1000m deep and twelve kilometres long.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Asturias
airport
(Oviedo). Drive
to the tranquil
mountain town
of Benia de
Onis.

Hike to
Vegaredonda
refuge for a
memorable
introduction
to our
surroundings.
Drive to Sotres.

Spectacular
ridge walk
gives great
views of all
three massifs
of the Picos
National Park.

Drive to
Pandebano.
Trek to Vega
de Urriello
Refuge at the
foot of the
iconic Naranjo
de Bulnes.

Hike through
beech forest to
the hamlet of
Treviso. Follow
an old mining
track to Urdon
Gorge.

Walk through
the imposing
Cares Gorge
- a highlight
of any visit
to northern
Spain.

Mountain village hotel
Situated in the heart of the region’s highest village
Sotres, Casa Cipriano is a small family-run hotel
perfectly located as a base for exploring the
spectacular and little known Picos de Europa
mountains. It features a restaurant serving home
cooked food and a bar. There is an open log fire
for cool evenings and an outside terrace for warm
sunny days. We stay here for six of the seven nights.

This snowshoeing adventure takes us through the dramatically beautiful snow-capped mountains of Picos de Europa National Park. We experience
a variety of mountain scenery on snowshoe routes in the Eastern, Western and Central Massifs. On one day, weather permitting, we leave the snow
behind and trek along cliff-cut pathways through the imposing Cares Gorge. Snowshoeing is fun and easy, and doesn’t require previous experience.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Asturias
airport. Drive
to Sotres in
the Picos de
Europa, our
main base for
the week.

Snowshoe up
to Collada
da Antesoles
and Refugio
Andara
(1700m).
Descent to Jito
de Escarandi.

Hike via the
Teju and
Nevandi
valleys to
village of
Espinama
where we
spend the night.

Take cable car
from Fuente
De to heart
of the Picos.
Snowshoe
back across
the mountains
to Sotres.

Snowshoe
to base of
the iconic
peak, Naranjo
de Bulnes.
Continue to
village of
Poncebos.

Walk along the
famous Cares
Gorge trail,
carved into the
rock (Winter
hike, not
snowshoeing).

Ascend to
Collada de
la Caballar.
Continue via
Majada de
Tobaos to
Tielve. Drive to
Oveido.

Trip ends
in Oviedo.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

FEB MAR

ACCOMMODATION

Cosy mountain hotel
For our summer ‘On Foot in the Picos de Europa’ trip
we stay mainly in Casa Cipriano in Sotres for our
snowshoeing holiday. Please see page 28 or visit
the website for more details.

Discover the remote north-western coast of Galicia as we walk along deserted beaches and cliffs to isolated lighthouses and viewpoints.
Gain an insight into the rich history of the region that is inextricably bound up with this wild coastline. Stay off the beaten track in the small
beach resort of Laxe and quiet fishing village of Camarinas, and hike to Cape Finisterre - the ‘End of the World’. En route there are plenty of
opportunities to try the local cuisine, including fresh ‘catch of the day’.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in the historic
coastal city
of A Coruna,
on the northwest coast of
Galicia.

Walk along
beaches and
cliffs from the
fishing village
of Malpica to
Punta Nariga.
Overnight in
Laxe.

The accommodation,
breakfasts, meals, wine
tastings and walks
were excellent.

SPAIN
SEVILLE

Theresa Bartlett
Malaga
airport 0 km

270 km

DAILY DISTANCES

Rio

Parque Nacional de Donana
Protected wetlands

Gu

ada

lqu

ivir

SPAIN

SANLÚCAR
DE BARRAMEDA

Manzanilla
wine tasting

Arcos de la Frontera
Jerez
Real Tesoro
y Valdespino
Bodegas

Brandy
Bodega
Cadiz
0 km

Bodegas
Descalzos Viejos

RONDA
Cueva
del Gato

Almijara
Bodegas

Tajo
Canyon

Benaojan

COMPETA
MALAGA
Old Town

Bodegas
Bentomiz

‘

Day 2

6km

Day 3

10km

2hrs

Day 4

9km

Day 5

12km

4.5hrs

Day 7

4km

1.5hrs

Day 8

4km

2hrs

3.5hrs
3hrs

Day 6

45 km

Combining easy walking with local wine tasting, this journey from the east to west of southern Spain passes through some of the area’s most
famous regions. As we travel though rural Andalucia and on to the cities of Jerez and Sanlucar de Barrameda we see a progression from
small scale local wine production to internationally successful bodegas (wine houses). The walking is also varied including the hills of the
Sierra de Grazalema, the estuary by the UNESCO protected wetlands of Donana National Park, and Cadiz’s ‘Old Town’.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

DAY

9

Join trip
in Malaga. If
time allows
explore the
interesting ‘Old
Town’, harbour
and beach.

Walk through
‘Old Town’.
Drive to
Axarquia. After
wine tasting
in Sayalonga,
walk to
Competa.

Circular hike
via Casa
de la Mina.
Great views to
mountains and
coast. Visit to
local bodega.

From Ronda’s
historic centre
descend down
Tajo Canyon to
a winehouse
in a converted
monastery.

Walk through
Guadalevin
valley to
Benaojan
in the foothills
of Sierra de
Grazalema

From our small, traditional hotel in the village of Canillas de Albaida, we explore an ancient network of trails linking picturesque whitewashed Moorish villages through an Andalucian landscape of vineyards, olive groves and mountains. We hike along parts of the Camino de
Marquis, and have the opportunity to visit the spectacular Alhambra Palace in Granada and walk the recently re-opened Caminito del Rey. In
the evenings we can relax and sample some of the delicious local food and sweet wine.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Malaga
airport. Drive
up to Canillas
de Albaida on
the edge of the
national park.

Walking tour of
village. Follow
old mule tracks
to Competa,
famous for its
wine. Optional
visit to local
bodega.

Walk on
Camino de
Marquis,
named after
the local
resistance in
Spain’s civil
war.

Trek along
a Roman
path, up past
avocado and
citrus groves to
Moorish village
of Salares for a
local lunch.

Free day.
Opportunity to
visit Granada
and the
Alhambra
Palace.

Ascend mule
track to summit
of Cerro Verde
(1346m). Look
out for eagles
and peregrine
falcons.

Family-run hotel
Posada la Plaza is a family-run hotel in the centre
of the ‘pueblo blanco’ of Canillas de Albaida. This
16th century building was used as a convent and
then as a family home before being converted into
a small hotel in 2004. Rooms are comfortable and
air-conditioned. A small, simple spa is available to
guests at an additional charge.

Stay in a family-run guesthouse in the remote hills
of southern Spain’s beautiful Sierra de Aracena

A good mix of
walking, sightseeing
and introduction to the
local delicacies.

SPAIN

Bridget Moseley

CASTAÑO DEL
ROBLEDO
Seville

Cortelazor
625m

Galaroza
0 km

270 km

Jabugo
650m

CASTAÑO DEL
ROBLEDO

Carboneras

Aracena 605m
Optional visits Castle
Templar church

740m

Cerro San
Cristobal 907m
Porrejona
Bodega
vineyard

Fuenteheridos

SPAIN

Aguafria

Finca Monte
Robledo
cheese farm

Peña
de Arias
Montano
710m

El
Calabacino

DAILY DISTANCES

From/To
Seville Airport

Linares

Alájar

Almonaster 570m
9th Century Mosque
Bull ring

0 km

‘

Day 2

11km

Day 3

11.5km

4hrs
4hrs

Day 4

9.5km

3.5hrs

Day 5
5 km

Day 6

8.9km

3hrs

Day 7

12.6km

4hrs

Explore the trails of Spain’s unspoilt UNESCO Heritage Reserve Sierra de Aracena on this relaxed walking trip through rural Andalucia. The
pretty ‘white village’ of Castano de Robledo is set amids a verdant and rolling landscape of hills and forests of cork, oak and chestnut trees.
From our traditional village house we take scenic village to village walks along ancient drover routes, and hike up Cerro San Cristobal for
spectacular views over the surrounding area. We also learn about the local food and sample the delicious regional cuisine.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Seville
airport. Drive
to the small
‘white village’
of Castano del
Robledo.

Walk through
chestnut
woods to
Alajar via the
spectacular
viewpoint at
Pena de Arias
Montano.

Follow Rio
Murtiga to
the village of
Jabugo, famous
for producing
some of the
finest
Serrano ham.

Family-run guesthouse
Posada del Castano is a traditional village house
and has retained many of its original features,
including rustic terracotta floor tiles and chestnut
roof beams. There are eight simple rooms, seven
with en suite facilities. Communal areas include
an upstairs lounge, a terrace and a balcony with
views over the village to the hills beyond.

Hidden deep in the Pyrenees, Andorra is one of the smallest countries in Europe and it offers superb summer walking. We base ourselves in
the village of Soldeu and enjoy some of the area’s most beautiful walks including the UNESCO-protected valley of Madriu-Perafita-Claror,
and the glacial landscapes of Incles Valley and Sorteny Valley - home to more than 700 species of flowers and plants.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Barcelona
airport. Drive
to Soldeu, an
alpine village
in the heart of
the Pyrenees.

Drive to Ransol
village. Walk
to the beautiful
valley of Vall
del Riu. Visit
the village of
Canillo.

Walk through
Sorteny Valley,
home to a
diversity of
alpine flowers,
to Estanyo
Lake (2390m).

Free day.
Opportunity to
visit Andorra’s
capital, or
explore more
on foot.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL JUN JUL AUG SEP

34

Pass through
Drive to
Free day.
beautiful
Saint Miquel
Opportunity to
forests as we
d’Engolasters. go whitewater
walk along
Walk in
rafting or visit
Incles Valley to
UNESCO
a local spa.
Cabana Sorda protected valley
Lake.
of MadriuPerafita-Claror.

Trip ends
at Barcelona
airport.

ACCOMMODATION

Mountain hotel
Located in the historic centre of the mountain
village of Soldeu (1800m), our hotel Soldeu Maistre
is conveniently close to local bars and restaurants.
Open year-round this modern family-run hotel
has 48 rooms over 3 floors. It is built in a typical
Pyrenean style using stone and wood.

Explore the picturesque, medieval towns of Carcassonne and Narbonne on foot, before heading south to discover the trails of France’s ‘Secret
Riviera’. Far removed from the crowds and glitz of the Cote d’Azur, lies the beautiful Vermilion Coast, where France meets Spain and the
Pyrenees Mountains plunge down to the Mediterranean Sea. Hiking along the seashore and cliff top routes we discover the natural beauty of
this area, its turbulent history and proud Catalan culture. Quaint Collioure is an artists’ haven, where we stay in the heart of the old town.

Follow in the footsteps
of the Cathars and
discover their
remarkable chateaux

To/from
Lille

Eteang de Thou

CARCASSONNE

Medieval Citadel
Walking tour
Canal du Midi

DAILY DISTANCES

FRANCE
Puivert
Chateau
de Puivert

Chateau de
Peyrepertuse
Gorges de
Calamus

Col du Chioula

Mediterranean
Sea

DUILHAC
Wine tasting
Chateau de
Queribus

Pic de Tarbesou
(2364m)

AX-LES-THERMES
0 km

PYRENEES

Day 2

17km

5hrs

Day 3

12km

4.5hrs

Day 4

13km

4.5hrs

Day 5

12km

4.5hrs

Day 6

9km

2.5hrs

Day 7

12km

4hrs

20 km

Discover the Languedoc’s remarkable string of Cathar castles on this walking holiday in south-west France. Trekking out of the French
Pyrenees through the Ariege and Aude regions, we pass pretty villages nestling in the shadows of dramatic castles. Walking through
impressive gorges and vineyards, we enjoy regional French cooking and wines along the way to our final destination - the spectacular
fortified city of Carcassonne.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip at
Carcassonne
airport and
drive to AxLes-Thermes
in the French
Pyrenees.

Walk from
the Col du
Chioula to the
Cathar village
of Montaillou
with its ruined
castle.

Hike to the Pic
de Tarbesou
for magnificent
360 degree
views of the
Pyrenees.

Visit Puivert’s
Chateau of the
Troubadours
and walk
through the
impressive
Galamus
Gorge.

Explore the
splendid
Chateau de
Peyrepertuse;
walk through
vineyards and
try the local
wines.

Walk to the
amazing
Queribus
Castle,
perched high
on a needle of
rock.

Take a
walking tour
of medieval
Carcassonne
and later stroll
along the
Canal du Midi.

Trip ends in
Carcassonne.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN JUL SEP

36

DAY

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

‘

A wonderful trip. The itinerary
of all three areas was excellent with
alpine meadows, mediterranean
flora and the Cathar history.
Robert Wilson

A great mix of
easyish walks, wine
tasting, plus some
beautiful places to visit
and eating and relaxing
in good company.

Pech Merle
caves

Anne McPherson

FRANCE

Cordes Sur Ciel

DAILY DISTANCES

CARCASSONNE

Walking tour of Citadel
Canal du Midi walk

30 km

Perpignan

COLLIOURE

SPAIN

Coastal walks, wine tasting

VE
R
COMILIO
AS N
T

Fontfroide
Abbey

0 km

‘

Day 3

12km

Day 4

6km

2.5hrs

3hrs

Day 5

9km

3hrs

Day 6
Day 7

3km

Day 8

13km

1hrs
4.5hrs

Enjoy easy walks, great wine and fabulous food on a journey from the shores of the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea. Starting out in
Bordeaux, we indulge in the first of five included wine tastings and explore the city and nearby coastal dunes on foot. Heading inland, we
ramble through beautiful countryside with time to wander in medieval villages. We discover the fabulous fortified citadel of Carcassonne and
stroll alongside the Canal du Midi, before reaching the Mediterranean at charming Collioure.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in the city of
Bordeaux
on France’s
Atlantic coast.

Take a walking
tour and enjoy
our first taste
of Bordeaux
wines at the
Wine Museum.

I was utterly seduced
by Provence. Lovely
little towns and villages
along the routes plus
lots of history.

VAUCLUSE
PLATEAU
Venasque

Elizabeth Thorn

Gordes

Avignon
Saint Remy
Visit to market
Les Baux

ARLES

Montagne
Sainte Victoire
1011m

Camargue
Regional
Park

DAILY DISTANCES

Aix-enProvence

Saintes-Maries
-de-la-Mer

Marseille
0 km

35 km

‘

Day 2

12km

Day 3

9km

3.5hrs
3hrs

Day 4

11km

3.5hrs

12km

4.5hrs

Day 5
Day 6

Explore the landscapes and villages of Provence and the Camargue on this holiday based in the ancient Roman city of Arles. Enjoy easy
walks among the white horses and flamingos of the Rhone Delta and between the picturesque villages of the Vaucluse Plateau. There’s also
time to sample local produce at some of Provence’s best markets and visit the cultural attractions of Avignon and famous Roman aqueduct,
the Pont du Gard.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Marseille
airport and
drive to Arles.

Easy walking
along the
lakes and
fields of the
Camargue with
its flamingos
and white
horses.

Scenic walk
from Venasque
to Le Beaucet.
Visit the
historic hill-top
village of
Gordes.

Explore the
weekly market
in Saint Remy
before walking
to Les Baux.

A free day to
explore more
of Provence
such as
Avignon or
the famous
Pont du Gard
aqueduct.

Time to visit
the market in
Arles, discover
its Roman sites
or venture
further afield.

Drive to
Marseille
airport where
the trip ends.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR JUN SEP OCT

38

ACCOMMODATION

Family-run hotel
Close to the River Rhone in Arles, the Porte de
Camargue is a welcoming family-run hotel.
Formerly an 18th century home, the simple yet
comfortable bedrooms are furnished in the light
‘camargue’ style and all have private bathrooms.
The city’s historic quarter and impressive Roman
amphitheatre are within an easy 15 minute walk.

The Mont Blanc massif provides outstanding mountain scenery and is home to the charming Chamonix Valley. Our day walks in the Alps
include sections of the famous Tour du Mont Blanc route, including the spectacular trail to Lac Blanc, where we can enjoy panoramic views of
the whole Mont Blanc range. Based in a comfortable hotel, we can relax at the end of each day, with no need to carry luggage during walks
or pack up every night.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Geneva
airport from
where we
drive to Les
Houches in
the Chamonix
Valley.

Take the
mountain train
to Le Buet.
Following the
river we walk
to Cascades
du Berard
(1400m).

A free day to
cycle, glacier
trek or take
the famous
Aguilles du
Midi cable car
to 3842m.

Hike through
the meadows
from Servoz
Lac Vert.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL JUN JUL AUG SEP

Walk to Lac
Drive to
Blanc (2352m) Geneva airport
for panoramic
where the
views of the
trip ends.
whole mountain
range.

Go online for departure dates

or visit explore.co.uk

ACCOMMODATION

Alpine chalet
Hotel du Bois is an attractive alpine chalet in the
heart of the small village of Les Houches, just five
kilometres from Chamonix. The hotel’s restaurant
serves French cuisine and wine and there is a
cosy bar with outside seating where you can
enjoy a drink in the sunshine The large garden
has a swimming pool with wonderful views of Mont
Blanc. The hotel also has a heated indoor pool
and a sauna.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most spectacular treks in Europe. We hike 148 kilometres through France, Switzerland and Italy, across
five major passes, staying along the way in comfortable hotels and a traditional auberge. We walk among breathtaking mountain scenery on
the flanks of Mont Blanc, with views of some of the most dramatic peaks in the Alps.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

Join trip
at Geneva
airport. Drive
to Argentiere in
the Chamonix
Valley.

Cable car
to 1900 m.
Trek through
countryside
to Lac Blanc
(2352m) and
descend to
Argentiere.

Trek to Col de
Balme (2191m).
Surrounded
by glaciers,
descend to
La Forclaz in
Switzerland.

Hike through
meadows
and forest
along the
‘Bovine Route’
to the lake
at Champex
(1486m).

Enjoy exhilarating walking in the heart of some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on the planet - the Swiss Alps. We stay in the
shadow of the Matterhorn in the charming mountain resort of Zermatt, enjoy typical alpine hospitality at the Trift mountain hut and admire
the emblematic north face of the Eiger. Superb hikes include a section of the famous ‘Europaweg’ high mountain route and a trek to the
breathtakingly beautiful, turquoise Lake Oeschinensee.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Geneva
airport and
drive to
Zermatt in the
shadow of the
Matterhorn.

Hike along the
‘Europaweg’
with great
views of
Zermatt
and the
surrounding
peaks.

Trek through
forests and
flower-filled
meadows to
the mountain
hut at Trift.

A spectacular
high-level
traverse under
the north
face of the
Matterhorn.

Drive to
Kandersteg in
the Bernese
Oberland and
walk to the
bright turquoise
lake of
Oeschinensee.

Admire the
north face of
the Eiger on
a hike from
the glaciated
valley of
Lauterbrunnen.

Hike to the
clifftop village
of Murren with
option to take
the cablecar to
the Schilthorn
(2971m).

Enjoy great walking
and a warm Tyrolean
welcome at our
charming village base

The week in Austria
was wonderful
and beyond my
expectations.
Mildred Cummings

To/from
Munich
Brandenberg Inn
Zireiner See
Kramsach

Gratlspitz
(1898m)

ALPBACH

Wiedersberger
Horn
2127m

0 km

DAILY DISTANCES

AUSTRIA

Rattenberg

Inneralpbach

10 km

‘

Standkopf
2241m

Day 2

13-16km

4hrs

Day 3

16km

5hrs

Day 4

12km

5hrs

Day 5

16.5km

4hrs

13-16km

5hrs

Day 6
Day 7

SALZBURG

Austria’s Tyrol is a beautiful mountain region of precipitous peaks, green valleys and quaint villages. We base ourselves in charming
Alpbach. Voted as Austria’s prettiest village, it is the picture-perfect image of the Tyrol with well-kept chalets, flower-filled window boxes
and views of the whole valley. We enjoy walks through forest and meadow and ascend the higher ridges by cable car for fantastic views of
the snow-capped Alps.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Munich
airport and
drive to
Alpbach
(975m) in the
Austrian Tyrol.

A gentle valley
walk through
larch forests
and farmland
along the
Muehlbachweg.

Take a cable
car to 1850m
for an easy
ridge walk
with fantastic
views of
snow-capped
peaks.

Enjoy a walk in
the Tiefenbach
Gorge through
the forest
along the river
to Kramsach.

Ascend
by chairlift
and walk to
Zireiner See
(1799m), a
beautiful high
altitude lake.

A free day
to explore
pretty villages,
historic
Rattenburg,
Innsbruck or
Salzburg.

Walk around
the craggy
cliffs known
as Gratlspitz
(1898m) which
sit above
Alpbach.

Drive to
Munich airport
where the
trip ends.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

42

JUL AUG SEP

TIROL

ACCOMMODATION

Traditional alpine chalet
Family-run Hotel Muhlbachhof is just minutes
from the centre of Alpbach village. All rooms
have balconies and are furnished in a traditional
mountain style. Austrian style twin-bedded rooms
have two single mattresses, each with their own
set of bedding on one large bed base.

Walk to view the sheer pinnacles of the
Dolomites - a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Rie

Putzalm
mountain hut

nza

DOBBIACO

DOBBIACO
1200m

AUSTRIA

Villabassa

Ferrara
San Vito
Lake
Braies
1494m

1900m

Serla
2378m

Cimitero Di
Guerra

THE
DOLOMITES

Strudelkopf
2307m

From/To
Venice Airport
Refuge Auronzo
0 km

Yvette Seaton

Moso
1337m

‘

DAILY DISTANCES

Dolomitenhof
1454m
Sasso Di Sesto
2539m
Tre Cime
Refuge
2405m

Pratopiazza
1991m
Croda Rossa
3146m

Punta Del
Tre Scarperi
3149m

Venice

ITALY

Elmo
2434m

ITALY

Bagni di
Braies Vecchia

Croda Del Becco
2810m

The walks were very
varied and enjoyable.
Wonderful scenery,
lovely picnics.

Tre Cime
Di Lavaredo
2999m

Day 2

14km

5hrs

Day 3

11km

6hrs

Day 4

15km

6hrs

Day 5

7 km

Day 6

13km

7hrs

Day 7

11km

6hrs

Based in the town of Dobbiaco we explore the strikingly beautiful rock towers and limestone cliffs of the Dolomites - a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. We enjoy scenic treks through alpine meadows and pine forests, walk along ridges and ascend small summits. Every evening
we can relax in the hotel pool, gym or sauna and enjoy traditional Austrian-influenced cuisine typical of the region.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Venice
airport before
driving to
Dobbiaco in
the heart of the
Dolomites.

Walk through
fields and
forest to the
emerald
waters of Lake
Braies
(1494m).

A trek
through alpine
meadows
and forest to
the remote
Putzalm
mountain hut
(1743m).

Hike along the
Italian-Austrian
border with
great views of
the Dolomites
and WW1
buildings.

A free day to
relax or visit
the mountain
resort of
Cortina, Lienz
or the ‘Ice man’
at Bolzano.

Mountain
hike to see
the three
magnificent
limestone rock
towers of Tre
Cime.

Trek from
Pratopiazza
to Strudelkopf
summit
(2307m).

Drive to
Venice airport
where the trip
ends.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL JUN JUL AUG SEP

ACCOMMODATION

Mountain views
We stay in a family-run hotel in the small town
of Dobbiaco, a gateway to the Italian Dolomites.
Located close to the centre of the town, the hotel is
just a short walk from all amenities. The bedrooms
and garden enjoy beautiful views of the mountains
and the valley. Facilities include an indoor
swimming pool with sauna and a small gym.

The hotel was one
of the best Explore
venues I have been to,
with outstanding views
from the rooms.

GRAVEDONA

ITALY

Livo

Sorico

Dongo
Rezzonico
13th Century
castle

SWITZERLAND
Lake
Lugano

ITALY

ALPS

Lake
Como

Menaggio
Villa Carlotta

Graham Forbes

ALPS
Bellagio
Villas and
gardens

DAILY DISTANCES

‘

Civenna

From/To
Milan

Como
Museum
and shops

0 km

Day 2

14km

5hrs

Day 3

9km

4hrs

Day 4

9.5km

4hrs

Day 6

12km

6hrs

Day 7

10km

5hrs

Day 5

11 km

Regarded by many as Italy’s prettiest lake, the shores of Como have been a popular holiday retreat since Roman times. From the charming
town of Gravedona, we enjoy easy walking on the network of footpaths linking the many villages nestled in the mountains around the lake
and along the shore. Our family-run hotel is spectacularly located right at the water’s edge with superb views of the lake and Alps beyond.

Take a ferry
across the
lake and enjoy
a walk from
Civenna to
Bellagio.

A free day
to visit Villa
Carlotta near
Menaggio,
Como town
or relax in
Gravedona by
the lake.

Ascend
through fields
and forest
to the pretty
hill-top village
of Livo.

Walk from
Donga to
Rezzonico with
its 13th century
castle.

Drive to Milan
airport where
the trip ends.

Join trip
at Milan airport
and drive to
Gravedona on
the shore of
Lake Como.

MILAN

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY SEP OCT

44

ACCOMMODATION

Fabulous lake views
Family-run Hotel Regina is right on the shore of
Lake Como and just a 10 minute scenic walk from
the restaurants and shops of Gravedona. It’s the
perfect place to relax and enjoy the inspiring lake
and mountain views or take advantage of the
stunning panoramic solar heated swimming pool.

Rolling hills, medieval hill-top towns and enjoying great food and wine are all part of this walking holiday among the iconic landscapes of
southern Tuscany. We ramble through the vineyards of Chianti, along avenues of cypress trees and on ancient pilgrimage trails. We also
explore historic Montalcino and Montepulciano, take in the sights of marvellous Siena and soak up the atmosphere of Renaissance Florence.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Pisa airport
before driving
to Castellina
in Chianti
in southern
Tuscany.

Hike in the
Chianti Hills
and enjoy a
tasting of the
superb Chianti
Classico wine.

Walk on the
Via Francigena
to the walled
town of San
Gimignano and
taste some
local wines.

Spend the
day exploring
the beautiful
medieval
city of Siena,
including its
famous Piazza
del Campo.

Ramble across
rolling hills
and along
cypress-lined
avenues to the
hill-top town of
Montapulciano.

Walk from
lovely San
Quirico D'Orcia
to hill-top
Montalcino for
superb views
of the Val
D'Orcia.

Explore the
wonderful
Renaissance
city of
Florence with
its many
galleries and
museums.

Drive to Pisa
airport where
the trip ends

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN AUG SEP OCT

DAY

Go online for departure dates

or visit explore.co.uk

‘

Exploring the hilltop
towns was great fun
and of course, the
food and wine in
Tuscany are fabulous.
Iain Thacker

A centre-based walking holiday exploring the landscapes of Tuscany’s hidden gem - the Garfagnana Valley. Nestled between the ‘marble
mountains’ of the Alpi Apuane and the rolling Apennines, this is an area of outstanding natural beauty. A highlight of the trip is walking along the
celebrated ‘Cinque Terre’ coastal path. Each evening we return to our comfortable agriturismo for some typical home-cooked Tuscan cuisine.

Agriturismo experience
This trip stays at an agriturismo - accommodation
located on a working farm. We use two different
properties, both enjoy stunning views of the
surrounding mountains, offer comfortable,
rustically furnished en-suite rooms and have
outdoor swimming pools. They provide homecooked, traditional Italian meals, often using
produce from the farm.

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

Insider
View
“Although I knew that northern
Tuscany would be different from
the rolling landscapes further
south, I certainly wasn’t expecting
the Garfagnana Valley and
surrounding mountains to be
quite so dramatic and beautiful. I
really loved the variety of walks
on this trip, from trekking in the
wild Apennines to hikes through
medieval hill-top villages. My
favourite has to be the day
spent in the Alpi Apuane ‘Marble
Mountains’ when you climb up
to the rock arch of Monte Ferato.
It’s quite challenging and your
reward is an amazing view all the
way down to the Mediterranean
Sea. Our agriturismo in a small
village with mountain views, was
an authentic way to experience
the local culture and the owners
were really welcoming. And of
course it being Italy, the food and
wine throughout the trip were
great!”
Wallis Besnard-Beaufort,
Adventure Travel Consultant
at Explore

An itinerary that
provides a cocktail
of stunning views,
magical forests,
vibrant towns and
boat-travel.

Ferriere Valley
National
Reserve
Pogerola

AGEROLA
PLATEAU

Amalfi

Catherine Field

Bomerano

SAN LAZZARO

DAILY DISTANCES

TYRRHENIAN SEA

Capri

0 km

‘

10 km

Day 2

11km

6hrs

Day 3

6km

2.5hrs

Day 4

10km

4hrs

Day 5

13km

6hrs

11km

5hrs

Day 6
Day 7

A relaxed walking holiday exploring the spectacular Amalfi Coast. Our walks take us across cliff tops, through woodland and national parks,
and culminate in the celebrated ‘Walk of the Gods’ - one of the world’s greatest coastal walks. There is time to explore Amalfi, Positano and
Capri, and you'll get the chance to visit Pompeii and Ravello. Our welcoming family-run agriturismo provides us with tasty home-produced
food and wine.

Hiking along
a ridge above
the Agerola
Plateau to
Bomerano, we
enjoy views
of the Amalfi
Coast.

Descend
on ancient
trails through
vineyards and
lemon groves
to the historic
port of Amalfi.

Hike along
the ‘Path of
the Gods, to
Positano - one
of the world’s
best coastal
walks.

Trip ends
at Naples
airport.

Take a ferry
Walk through
A free day,
to enchanting
the Ferriere
with the
Capri, walk to
National
chance to visit
a viewpoint
Park passing
the ancient site
and explore waterfalls, rivers of Pompeii and
the town’s
and unusual
climb Mount
narrow streets.
plant-life.
Vesuvius.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV

48

Go online for departure dates

ACCOMMODATION

Cliff-top agriturismo
We stay at an agriturismo, (working farm with
guesthouse), called Luna d’Agerola. Owned
and run by Ferdinando and his whole family,
our relaxed and friendly hosts provide most
meals during the week. They are simple, rustic
and tasty fare that is typical of the region. The
bedrooms are well-appointed and all have
en-suite bathrooms.

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

EUROPE

Insider
View
“I’ve been leading this trip for a
few seasons now - I keep coming
back as it never fails to deliver. The
scenery is fabulous, with beautiful
walks that always end with
delicious gelato, a coffee or a beer,
and often with a dip in the warm
sea. Favourite hikes include the
wild Ferriere Valley, where paths
snake through rocky outcrops
and give fantastic views to distant
towns, and the 'Walk of the Gods',
following the edge of high cliffs
and finishing in lovely Positano. If
that’s not enough, each evening is
finished with tasty food and wine,
from our fabulous hosts or at a
local trattoria. It’s simply superb!”
Nigel Lewis,
Explore Leader

Enjoy day walks exploring the rugged beauty of Liguria’s UNESCO-listed coastline, where steep cliffs plunge into a turquoise sea and colourful
fishing villages nestle precariously at their foot. In the Cinque Terre National Park we walk on the ‘Azure Trail’ and pass through vineyards and
woodland among local farmers at work. We discover the chic harbour town of Portofino and spectacular landscapes of Portovenere.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip at
Pisa airport
and drive to
Bonassola on
the Ligurian
Coast.

Hike to the
Cinque Terre
village of
Monterosso
along an old
railway line
and coastal
trails.

Walk the
UNESCO-listed
coastline from
Riomaggiore
to the
spectacular
setting of
Portovenere.

Drive to Pisa
airport where
the trip ends.

Hike to
Discover rural
A free day to
Monterosso
lives untouched visit the cities
from the quaint by tourism on of Genoa or La
Cinque Terre inland footpaths Spezia, enjoy
fishing villages
through
further walks
of Vernazza
vineyards and
or visit the
and Corniglia.
woodland.
beach.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN SEP OCT

50

ACCOMMODATION

Warm family welcome
Pensione Moderna is a simple and homely familyrun hotel, just a hundred metres from the beach in
the pretty seaside village of Bonassola. Bedrooms
have their own private bathroom, television and
free Wi-Fi is available. Surrounded by a tropical
garden, the terrace is the perfect place to relax at
the end of the day.

A holiday combining walking in the beautiful Umbrian countryside with time in Italy’s incomparable capital, Rome. In Umbria we stay
in ancient Orvieto, perched high on an outcrop of volcanic rock, and in the picturesque, walled town of Spello. Our hikes take us from
the spectacular Ponte del Torri aqueduct near Spoleto, to the slopes of Mount Subasio and streets of St Francis’s Assisi. In Orvieto and
Montefalco we enjoy some wine tasting. Ending in Rome, we take a walking tour with time left free for exploration of the city’s many sights.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Rome
airport.
Drive to the
spectacularly
located, rocktop town of
Orvieto.

Hike along
old Etruscan
paths through
villages and
vineyards
to taste the
famous Orvieto
wine.

Walk through
vineyards to
Montefalco
and enjoy a
wine tasting.

Walk from
Spoleto along
an ancient
aqueduct
and visit the
amphitheatre
before driving
to Rome.

Enjoy an
orientation
of the city on
foot and free
time to explore
Rome’s
innumerable
sights.

Trip ends
in Rome.

A free morning
Follow in
to explore
pilgrims’
the rock wall
footsteps to
path around
Assisi on the
Orvieto.
slopes of
Afternoon walk Mount Subasio.
to Bevagna.

Discover Puglia and Basilicata’s beautiful countryside and laid-back charm on this twin-centre walking holiday to the ‘heel’ of boot-shaped
Italy. Enjoy walks in ancient pine forests on the Gargano Peninsula and along the rugged coast. In Matera we explore the ancient Sassi,
a UNESCO-listed troglodyte quarter, stay in a cave hotel, and hike gorge-rim trails. On rambles around Alberobello and Locorotondo, we
discover the beehive-shaped trulli houses of the Itria Valley.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Bari airport
and drive via
historic Trani,
to Vieste on
the Adriatic
coast.

Walking in the
protected and
untouched
ancient forests
of the Gargano
Peninsula.

A brilliant introduction
to the scenery and
culture of Sicily. Every
day was different!

Milazzo

Nebrodi
Mountains
Walk in the
Lake District

Castelmola Monte
Venere
Taormina

GIARDINI
NAXOS

Sheila Dutnell

3323m
Mt Etna
Ionian
Sea

SICILY

Catania

‘

DAILY DISTANCES

Pantalica
Gorge Hike
0 km

Syracusa
Ancient
Greek City

Day 2

6km

Day 3

4km

3.5hrs
2hrs

Day 4

6km

3.5hrs

Day 6

6km

4.5hrs

Day 7

6km

4hrs

Day 5

35 km

Enjoy a week of walking in a diverse variety of scenic landscapes. Based in a simple family-run hotel in the seaside town of Giardini Naxos, we
walk alongside the lava flows on iconic Mount Etna, take a ferry to the peaceful Aeolian island of Vulcano and ramble among the rock-cut tombs
of the UNESCO-listed Pantalica Gorge. From Monte Venere we admire spectacular coastal views, while the lakes and uplands of Mount Nebrodi
National Park are a verdant and isolated wilderness.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Catania
airport before
driving to
our hotel by
the beach
in Giardini
Naxos.

Hike among
the forests and
lava flows of
Mount Etna,
Europe’s
largest
volcano.

Take a ferry
to the Aoelian
island of
Vulcano and
hike to the
crater rim.

Walk from
the medieval
village of
Castelmola to
Monte Venere
(880m) for
amazing
views.

A free day to
visit nearby
Taormina or
the ‘Godfather’
mountain
towns of
Savoca and
Forza.

Hike alongside
the Anapo
River and
rock-cut tombs
of the scenic
Pantalica
Gorge. Visit
Syracusa.

Walk in the
isolated
wilderness of
the Nebrodi
Mountains
National Park.

Drive to
Catania airport
where the trip
ends.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP OCT

ACCOMMODATION

Seaside hotel
Our simple family-run hotel is located just a few
metres from the beach in the seaside resort and
fishing village of Giardini Naxos. Our location is
ideal for striking out to explore the excellent and
varied walking on offer in eastern Sicily. After a
day out on the trails our hosts will cook up some
typical and tasty Sicilian cuisine.

Go online for departure dates

or visit explore.co.uk

53

‘

EUROPE

‘

My ‘Tastes of Italy’ collection is for anyone
who like myself, has a passion for Italy,
great food and walking.
Caroline Phillips, Walking Programme Manager

Tastes of

Italy

These five unique trips explore different parts of Italy
and while quintessentially walking holidays, there’s
also a strong focus throughout them on discovering
and appreciating each regions’ produce and cuisine.
Walking and enjoying great food and drink are the
perfect mix. You’ll work up a great appetite and then
hopefully burn away most of the calories consumed!

Combine a discovery of the Veneto's fine regional specialities with easy-going walking in gorgeous locations. Enjoy a bird's eye view of Lake Garda's
blue waters from Monte Baldo and ramble through the vineyards and hamlets of 'Prosecco Country' in the foothills of the Dolomites. Explore the
streets of historic Verona and magnificent Venice on the Adriatic. Our Prosecco day and Grappa tasting will no doubt be holiday highlights!

Discover and enjoy the exceptional food and wine of Emilia Romagna. Ramble through its beautiful landscapes, from the Apennine foothills
to the Po River Delta. Learn the secrets of how Parma ham, parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, tortellini and Lambrusco wines are made.
Explore the architectural treasures of Bologna, Modena, Ravenna and canals of Comacchio, the regions’ ‘Little Venice’.

Liguria and Tuscany’s fantastic local produce and cuisine are the perfect accompaniment to the natural beauty of the coast and mountains.
Enjoy easy rambles along Cinque Terre trails, in Tuscany’s Garfagnana Valley and around the walls of Renaissance Lucca. See how regional
specialties such as pesto, lardo, cheeses, breads and oils are produced. Taste the local wines and stay on a family-run farm.

Easy walks along the spectacular Amalfi Coast combine with eating, drinking and cooking on a gastronomic journey. Staying on a family-run
farm, we learn how regional specialties are made. Hikes take us to Amalfi, Ravello and hidden coves for the chance to swim and eat fresh
seafood. We also walk the famous ‘Path of the Gods’. In Naples, we visit its oldest food market and the birthplace of pizza.

Discover the superb cuisine and wines of Puglia and enjoy easy walks with wide panoramas of gently rolling landscapes. Ramble in the Alta
Murgia National Park, explore the ancient ‘sassi’ and gorge of Matera and visit the conical trulli houses of the Itria Valley. See first hand how
local cheeses, bread, olive oil and wines are produced and learn how to make the local oriecchiette ‘little ear’ pasta.

Discover the
landscapes and history of
the Baltic States
Gulf of Finland

BALTIC
SEA

TALLINN

SAAREMAA

LAHEMAA NP
Altja

ESTONIA
Sigulda

Kemeri
NP

CURONIAN
SPIT NP

Klaipeda

Nida

Turaida
Castle
Gauja NP
River Gauja

RIGA

CESIS

DAILY DISTANCES

LATVIA

Hill of Crosses

LITHUANIA

KALININGRAD

Trakai
Castle

VILNIUS
0 km

POLAND

BELARUS

200 km

Day 2

15km

Day 3

5km

5hrs
2hrs

Day 4

8km

3.5hrs

Day 5

4km

1.5hrs

Day 6

12km

3.5hrs

Day 7

4km

2hrs

On this walking trip we visit the three Baltic States: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. We discover their cultural heritage and explore some of their
many national parks. We walk through forests, along sand dunes, and learn to bog walk, whilst learning about the different ecosystems. We
visit the capitals of each country, see the 'old town' UNESCO Heritage Sites and walk around Lithuania’s beautiful 15th century Trakai Castle.

On this walking trip in Romania we experience local hospitality, discover beautiful countryside and explore historic towns. We get well off the
beaten track as we travel deep into the Transylvanian Alps, the legendary home of Dracula. Staying in a local guesthouse and mountain huts
we walk through the imposing Bran Valley and to the Piatra Craiului Mountains for one of the most spectacular ridge walks in Europe. We
also have the opportunity to visit the ornately decorated Peles and Bran Castles.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Bucharest
airport. Drive
to Sinaia, in
the foothills
of the Bucegi
Mountains.

Cable car into
Transylvanian
Alps, home to
brown bears,
wolves and
boar. Walk to
mountain hut.

Descend to the
beautiful Bran
Valley and
Moeciu village.
Views to the
Piatra Craiului
Mountains.

Starting in south western Montenegro and continuing to the islands of Croatia, this 8 day walking trip takes you on some of the most beautiful
coastal, mountain and village trails of the southern Balkans. Visit the historical town of Kotor for a birds eye view from the ramparts and
climb Mt Vrmac for astounding views of the Montenegrin coastline. Explore traditional villages and bustling towns before travelling by boat to
continue walking on the islands off the coast at Dubrovnik. A great taste of the lesser travelled paths of these two countries.

Mountains, lakes,
canyons and
coastlines. Dramatic
and beautiful walking
in a great country

CROATIA
PLITVICE NP
Lakes and
waterfalls walk

Zavizan
Premuziceva
Trail

BOSNIA
HERZEGOVINA

VELIKA
PLANA
Gorge walk

PAKLENICA NP
Coastal walk

DAILY DISTANCES

0 km

Trogir

40 km

SPLIT

City tour

Day 3

10km

4hrs

Day 4

16km

5.5hrs

Day 5

8km

Day 6

9km

4hrs
4.5/1.5hrs

7km

km
Optional Walks

On this walking trip through Croatia’s national parks, we explore the jagged mountain peaks of Dalmatia, the plunging gorges of Paklenica
and admire the spectacular lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice. Along the way we also visit the pretty coastal cities of Split and Trogir,
discovering a maze of cobbled streets, meandering alleyways and medieval architecture.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

DAY

8

Join trip
in Zagreb.

Walking tour of
Zagreb. Drive
to Plitvice
National Park.

Enjoy walking
around
breathtaking
lakes and
waterfalls in
Plitvice.

Drive to
Zavizan and
walk the
Premuziceva
Trail, a hiker’s
highlight.

Explore
Paklenica
National Park
on foot with
a stunning
coastal walk.

A full day hike
in the dramatic
Paklenica
Gorge.

Visit Trogir,
one of the
oldest cities in
Croatia, drive
to Split and
tour the city.

Trip ends
in Split.

‘

The mountains
and coastal scenery
of Paklenica are
simply stunning.
Hayley Grant

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN AUG SEP

60

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

‘

Insider
View
"The Walks and Coastal Towns
of Croatia trip is the perfect mix
of nature, culture, mountains and
the sea. Strolling around Zagreb,
drinking coffee on the promenade
in Split or just enjoying medieval
Trogir, day by day you see another
beautiful town and discover its
unique history. Then there are the
mountains and national parks.
You'll discover the hidden parts of
Velebit National Park while hiking
along Premuzic trail and explore
the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia's most
famous national park. My favourite
day was hiking through Paklenica
Gorge, a spectacular canyon that
will leave you speechless. This
trip gives you the chance to see
Croatia in a different light with its
most famous sights combined with
'hidden gems' of nature."
Ivana Radic,
Explore Representative

Explore the beautiful
'Albanian Alps', and
experience northern
Albania at its best
Hike the Valbona Pass
Hike in Thethi NP
THETH
O

GR

Boge
NT
MOHike towards
Thore Pass
Sh

ko

dra

La

ke

Hike Rrethi i Jubanit
Hike Gjarpri Dragobis

River walk

DAILY DISTANCES

Koplik

SHKODRA

Koman
Ferry trip on lake

ALBANIA

ADRIATIC
SEA
0 km

VALBONA

40 km

MACEDONIA

E
EN

KRUJA
Fortress

TIRANA

Day 2

6km

3hrs

Day 3

11km

5hrs

Day 4

7km

5hrs

Day 5

9km

Day 6

7km

Day 7

6km

7hrs
3km

4/2hrs
3hrs

Optional Walks

Explore the beauty of northern Albania's national parks on this scenic walking holiday. The highlights of the trip, Valbona and Theth national
parks, are in the little visited, stunning, Albanian Alps region. This will be a chance to see rural Albania at its best, encountering a traditional
jos
way of life in Vthe
villages that we visit and taking the opportunity to meet and eat with the local people who live there. Albania has some
ë
outstanding and breathtaking natural beauty, much of which you will get the chance to explore on foot during this week's walking.

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

Join trip
in Tirana.
Transfer to
Shkodra and
explore the
town on foot.

Drive to Koman
docks and
take a boat
ride across the
lake. Drive via
riverside walk
to Valbona.

Drive to
trailhead and
hike Gjarpri
I Dragobi
in Valbona
National Park.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

4

5

6

7

8

Hike Rrethi
I Jubanit in
the stunning
Valbona NP
and have
lunch with the
locals.

Drive to
Rrogram and
hike over the
Valbona Pass
to Theth.

Explore Theth
on foot. Visit
a waterfall,
church and
stone-walled
terraces.
BBQ lunch in
Nderlysa.

Hike on Thore
pass to Edith
Durham
memorial.
Drive to Tirana
and explore
on foot.

Trip ends
in Tirana.

GREECE

DAY

Margaret Phillips

‘

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

62

‘

A wonderful tour of
Albania mixing walking
with culture. It gave a real
insight into the people
and its history.

Explore Evia and experience traditional Greece on this walking and cruise trip. Join Captain Thanos on board his traditional Greek sailing
boat as we motor to beautiful bays and small harbours. We will walk to hillside villages, through olive groves and around ancient sites. We
also promenade with the locals along the waterfronts of tranquil fishing villages and sample the delicious regional cuisine.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Athens
airport. Ferry
to Evia and
transfer to
Karystos to
board the
caique.

Sail towards
Petali - the
exclusive
island haven
of the rich
and famous.
Continue to
Karystos.

Take a ferry
to Rafina and
transfer by
bus to Athens
where the trip
ends.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL JUN JUL SEP

Go online for departure dates

or visit explore.co.uk

ACCOMMODATION

MV Isidoros II
Our caique has a large sundeck, and a comfortable,
airy galley for meals and indoor relaxing. There are
two double cabins on the main deck and six twin
cabins on the lower deck. All have en suite facilities.
There is also a boat ladder to make the most of the
swimming and snorkelling opportunities.

Corfu is one of the most beautiful Greek islands and on this walking holiday we explore the southern part of this wonderful island. We visit
ancient villages framed by vineyards, walk through shady olive groves and relax in riverside tavernas. We also climb Agii Deka, the island’s
second highest mountain, and enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

COMBINE YOUR TRIP

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Corfu Town.

Drive to Kavos,
the start of
the Corfu
Trail. Walk via
Arkoudillas
Monastery to
Spartera.

On this walking trip we concentrate on the northern half of the renowned Corfu Trail, from Liapades Beach to Agios Spyridon. We walk across
the island to the eastern coastal town of Kalami for views of Albania on the horizon. We also trek along the Karst Plateau to the summit of
Pantokrator Mountain, passing remote monasteries and hillside villages.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Liapades
Beach.

Walk across
olive groves to
Krini and down
a cliff footpath
to Agios
Georgiou.

Hike
alongside the
Megapotamos
river to Rekini
through the
picturesque
village of Pagi.

Walk along
the valley to
Spartillas,
drive to the
pretty village
of Kalami.

Explore Corfu
Town on foot,
optional boat
trip to Mouse
Island or tour
to Kanoni
Peninsula.

Trip ends
in Kerkyra
(Corfu Town).

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP OCT

COMBINE YOUR TRIP
If you would like to walk the full length of the
island on the Corfu trail, this trip can be combined
with our Walking the Corfu Trail (South). Visit our
website for more details.
Trip code: CFA

Walk from the rugged
White Mountains to the
azure blue sea on this
beautiful Greek island

DAILY DISTANCES

AEGEAN SEA
KHANIA
Mt Gingilos
Agia
Roumeli

OMALOS
Samaria
Gorge

Preveli
Monastery
Khora Sfakion

LOUTRO
0 km

CRETE

Heraklion

LIBYAN SEA

Zaros
Gorge

ZAROS

Day 2

2km

Day 3

8.5km

1.5hrs

Day 4

15km

6.5hrs

Day 5

12km

5hrs

5.5km

4.5hr

4.5km

6/3.5hrs

Day 6
Day 7

45 km

Optional Walks

On this holiday we explore the coastal and mountain terrain of Crete. We discover isolated beaches, secluded coves and impressive canyons.
We walk in the White Mountains, hike through the Samaria and Zaros Gorges, experience rural Cretan hospitality and see the beauty that this
wonderful island has to offer.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Khania.

Explore the
old town of
Khania before
travelling to
the Omalos
Plateau in
the White
Mountains.

Hiking in
the White
Mountains,
Mt Gingilos
(The Throne
of Zeus)
or Kallergi
Refuge.

Hike
through the
breathtaking
Samaria Gorge
to the coast at
Agia Roumelli.
Take a ferry to
Loutro.

Explore
beautiful
Loutro with
optional walks
including the
Aradhena
Gorge and
coastal paths.

Ferry to Khora
Sfakion. Travel
to Zaros in the
Idi Mountains
via a visit
to Preveli
Monastery.

Hike through
the spectacular
ravines of the
Zaros Gorge
and explore
the traditional
mountain
village.

Trip ends
at Heraklion
airport.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY SEP

66

DAY

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

‘

From the stunning coastline
with its small secluded
beaches, to the shrub-covered
mountains and equally
impressive gorges, I never got
tired of stopping to take it all in.
Sam Constable

Steeped in mythological history, Cyprus is a unique island. We discover its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage as we trek through
the Troodos Mountains and the Akamas Peninsula. In the Solea Valley we discover 12th century Byzantine churches, and we explore the
Tombs of Kings in Pafos. We also visit the Baths of Aphrodite, Kykkos Monastery and the Greco-Roman amphitheatre at Kourion.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

COMBINE YOUR TRIP

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Larnaka.

Discover
the city of
Lefkosia. Walk
the forest trails
of the Solea
Valley. Drive
to Troodos
Mountains.

Explore one of the most unspoilt regions of the Mediterranean on this walking trip through North Cyprus’ beautiful Besparmak Mountains. We
follow quiet, flower-rich mountain trails, and discover imposing Crusader castles, with stunning cobalt sea backdrops. In Kyrenia, we explore
the picturesque harbour front and narrow cobbled backstreets. Every evening we return to our hotel on the outskirts of historic Bellapais to
relax by the pool, or enjoy delicious, locally-grown food in nearby restaurants.

Bellapais Monastery Village
Our hotel is located in the foothills of the
Besparmak Mountains, within walking distance of
Bellapais village and abbey. With two swimming
pools and a roof terrace there is a lot of space to
relax outside and enjoy the sea views. There is
also a courtesy bus into Kyrenia town to explore its
harbour, castle and restaurants.

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

EUROPE

Insider
View
“I enjoy leading Explore’s ‘On Foot
in Northern Cyprus’ trip because
I love my country so it is nice
to introduce it to other people.
With the nature and natural life
in North Cyprus there are so
many interesting things to show
people including flowers and wild
animals - I particularly enjoy spring
time because there are so many
different wild flowers around.
Along with the beautiful walks in
Interesting landscapes I also enjoy
taking the groups to some of the
many historic places and castles
that we have, and introducing them
to the delicious local food.”
Engin Şah,
Explore Leader

Based in the beautiful harbour town of Kas, enjoy relaxing walks along the Turquoise Coast exploring the forests, hills, coastline and history
of the local area. We discover ruins of the original settlement of Antiphellos and hike to ancient Phellos. We explore the relics of Patara and
look for signs of loggerhead turtles nesting on the golden sandy beach. We also visit the ancient city of Xanthos, trek through the foothills of
the Taurus Mountains and climb to the ancient necropolis of Simena for stunning views over Kekova Bay.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
at Dalaman
airport. Drive
to the historic
harbour town
of Kas, on
the Turquoise
Coast.

Walking tour of
Kas including
Hellenistic
theatre and
Limanagzi
Beach.
Opportunity to
swim.

Hotel Club Phellos
Our hotel is a few minutes walk uphill from the
centre of Kas, with views down towards the
harbour. Its fresh water pool and terrace look
down towards the town and sea. Kas is known
for its old town, cafes, restaurants and interesting
shops and these are within walking distance, as is
the pretty waterfront.

Walking through the ancient province of Lycia, this trip follows one of Turkey’s most spectacular and famous coastal trails, the Lycian Way.
On our journey from Kayakoy to Simena, we trek through hills, forests and farmland, and along scenic paths overlooking the Turquoise Coast.
Along the way, we will experience remote village life, relax on golden beaches and discover ancient sites.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Kayakoy,
the deserted
Greek village.

Hike through
forests and
remote
villages to
Faralya. Stay
in a village
guesthouse.

Walk to the
ancient city
of Sidyma.
Opportunity to
take a glass of
tea at the local
teahouse.

Hike to Patara
Beach, an
ancient Roman
stronghold and
birthplace of
Saint Nicholas.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY SEP OCT

Follow the trail
Trek to the
through the
ancient port
Taurus foothills
of Aperlae.
to Mount
Explore Kekova
Felen ridge.
by boat and
Overnight in
visit Simena’s
Kas.
medieval castle.

Trip ends
at Dalaman
airport.

COMBINE YOUR TRIP
On some dates this trip can be combined with
our Blue Cruise trip, sailing along Turkey’s
Turquoise Coast. Visit our website for
more details.
Trip code: CE

Go online for departure dates

or visit explore.co.uk

71

Middle East
AND

Africa
Exotic, incredible, vast, unforgettable; there are so
many superlatives to describe this region - and an
amazing way to discover it is on foot.
You can immerse yourself in the local culture and
history exploring ancient cities hewn out of rock,
crusader castles and colourful souks. Camp in
Bedouin-style tents under the stars in the Wadi Rum
desert and follow the ancient spice trails, or meet
the locals staying in Berber villages. You can choose
to climb mountain peaks in Morocco, Ethiopia, or
Madagascar, and admire the breathtaking views - or
take the challenge to ascend the continent’s highest
peak, Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Insider View
“A continent of contrasts and variety,
walking in Africa offers something
a little bit special. The difficulty is
deciding where to go and which
trip to do. If you want a challenge,
you could try climbing its highest
peak, iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, or
Jebel Toubkal (which you can also attempt in winter for
something a bit different). If you want to discover more
about the local way of life and get away from the hustle
and bustle, try trekking through the Simien Mountains or
walking into the ancient wonder of Petra. Wherever you
choose to go, you’ll be sure to receive a warm welcome
and see a different side of what each country has to offer.”
Paul Rose,
Product Executive at Explore

Book this itinerary
as a Private Trip with
prices from £885
flight inclusive.

Aguersioul

Tizi n‘Oudit
2200m
Id Aissa

TIZI OUSSEM
1850m

Trip code: PJMJ

Imlil

AREMD

Tizi Mzik Pass
2489m
Sidi
Chamharouch

HIGH ATLAS RANGE

DAILY DISTANCES

MOROCCO

NELTNER
REFUGE
3207m

Jebel Toubkal 4167m
Tizi Ouanoums 3650m

Ouanoukrim
to 4089m

0 km

4 km

Day 2

8.5km

6hrs

Day 3

7km

5hrs

Day 4

9.5km

5hrs

Day 5

4.5km

6hrs

Day 6

7km

Day 7

1.5km

6.5/8.5km

4/3/6.5hrs
45mins

Lake Ifni

Optional Walks

This walking trip in the High Atlas culminates in the ascent of North Africa’s highest peak, Jebel Toubkal (4167m). We begin in the valley of
Imlil, trekking through juniper forests, past Berber villages and over passes; climbing steadily to a mountain refuge at Neltner. From here we
set out to nearby peaks including Toubkal, a rewarding climb with views of the whole Atlas chain.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAY

1

2

3

4

5/6

7

8

Walk through
the High
Atlas past the
holy site Sidi
Chamharouch
to our base
at Neltner
(3207m).

Walk from
Aremd to the
village of
Imlil. Return
to explore the
souks and
medina of
Marrakech.

Trip ends
in Marrakech.

Join trip
in Marrakech,
a bustling city
famous for its
souks.

Walk from the Ascend steadily
Berber village
to Tizi Mzik
of Aguersioual
pass (2489m)
(1600m)
then descend
to Azaden
to the mountain
Valley and
village of Aremd
Tizi Oussem
(1900m).
(1850m).

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN AUG SEP

74

DAY

‘

An incredible trip, fantastic
guides and a great group
of people to share the
adventure with.

Gemma Court

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

‘

Insider
View
“I had long wanted to climb Toubkal
as a personal challenge, and our
‘Toubkal Climb’ proved a great all
round experience. The feeling of
getting well off the beaten track,
staying in Berber village houses
and eating local food all added to
the overall sense of achievement
in reaching the summit of North
Africa’s highest peak. We were
really well guided and looked after
by our Explore Leader and trek
crew, and our group were great fun.
The two days walking in the High
Atlas prior to our ascent to Neltner,
Toubkal base camp, helped with
acclimatisation and bonding, and
really added to the experience.
The final ascent from Neltner is a
steady climb rewarded with great
views over the High Atlas and
Anti-Atlas Mountains. A really great
adventure!”
Jude Berry,
Walking Product Manager
at Explore

Challenge yourself
to trek to the summit
of Toubkal over a
long weekend

ALGERIA
Imlil 1740m

AREMD
1900m

Sidi
Chamharouch

HIGH ATLAS
RANGE
TOUBKAL
CAMP
3200m

MOROCCO
Jebel
Toubkal
4167m
0 km

4 km

DAILY DISTANCES
Day 2

11km

Day 3

13.5km

10.5hrs

5hrs

Day 4

1.5km

45mins

On this short trip we focus on climbing to the summit of North Africa’s highest peak, Jebel Toubkal (4167m). We travel from the ancient walled
city of Marrakech to the High Atlas Mountains, enjoying traditional Berber hospitality as we make our ascent to our campsite at Neltner. From
the summit we have panoramic views across the entire Atlas chain and towards the Sahara Desert.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

DAY

5

Join trip
in the
fascinating city
of Marrakech.

From Imlil
(1740m) trek
along Mizane
Valley and
up to Toubkal
campsite
(3200m).

With the snow-capped peaks of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains providing an impressive backdrop, we make an exhilarating climb to the
summit of Jebel Toubkal (4167m), North Africa’s highest peak. On a clear day we enjoy winter views from the summit across the Atlas range
and towards the Sahara Desert. En route we discover local villages and experience Berber hospitality. On our return we also explore the
souks and medina of the bustling city of Marrakech.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Morroco’s
most
famous city,
Marrakech.

Drive into the
Toubkal Massif
to Imlil (1740m).
Walk to Aremd
(1900m). Sleep
in village
house.

Hike to Neltner
Refuge,
Toubkal’s base
camp. Receive
instruction
on use of
crampons and
ice axe.

Climb to
summit of
Jebel Toubkal
(4167m).
Stunning views
over the High
Atlas winter
landscapes.

A fantastic insight into
rural Moroccan life,
combined with scenic
walks through the High
Atlas mountains

From/To

MARRAKECH

MOROCCO
OUKAIMEDEN

Ime
M

nan Jebel Oukaimeden
e
3262m

iza

ne

Tizi
Oussem

AGUERSIOUAL
Imlil

AREMD
1900m

AZIB
TAMSOULT

DAILY DISTANCES

IABASSEN

OUANSKRA
HIGH ATLAS

NELTNER REFUGE

3207m
Jebel Toubkal 4167m

TAZAGHART
PLATEAU

0 km

5 km

Day 2

5km

3hrs

Day 3

9.5km

7hrs

Day 4

11km

7hrs

Day 5

11km

7hrs

Day 6

12km

6hrs

Day 7

9km

Day 8

13.5km

9.5hrs

Day 9

1.5km

45mins

6hrs

On this trek we walk through the rugged terrain of Morocco’s highest mountain range. We stay in village houses, meet the local Berber people
and discover the wilderness of the High Atlas. We also have the option to climb to the summit of Mount Toubkal (4167m), the highest peak in
North Africa. On our return we also explore the souks and medina of the fascinating city of Marrakech.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Join trip
in Marrakech,
known as the
‘Red City’ due
to the colours
of the old
quarter.

On this trip we walk amongst the foothills of the majestic High Atlas Mountains and enjoy some time in the ancient city of Marrakech. In the
mountains we stay at a traditional family-run Berber riad and spend four days exploring the impressive surrounding mountains and valleys,
dotted with fruit orchards, patchwork fields and tiny mountain villages.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Join trip
in the bustling
city of
Marrakech.

Walking tour
of the historic
sites and
souks of North
Africa’s most
vibrant city.

Drive to our
riad in Imlil Our base for
4 days. Meet
our hosts and
explore the
local village.

Follow a
well worn
path to the
shrine of Sidi
Chamarouch.
See the holy
shrine there.

Hike up
through remote
mountain
villages to the
Tizi Mzik pass
(2489m) for
great views.

Follow local
road up past
high meadows
to Tizi n’
Tamatert pass
(2279m) and
on to the
village of Ikkis.

Return to
Marrakech.
Make an
evening visit to
lively Djemma
el- fna square.

Trip ends
in Marrakech.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN SEP OCT

ACCOMMODATION

Local riad
Stay in a traditional Berber riad, owned by a local
family. Riad Dar Assarou provides superb views
of the surrounding mountains and is built with
local materials, including round stones from the
Ait Mizane River and locally sourced bamboo and
wood used to decorate the ceilings. The terraces
overlook the river and Toubkal summit.

Discover Petra and
Wadi Rum on foot
while staying in
Bedouin-style camps

Mt Nebo

MADABA
St George’s
Church

ay
Des

ert

Kin
gs

Hig

ISRAEL

Hig
hw

hwa

y

Kerak
Castle

JORDAN

Little Petra
Petra
Rock-carved
city

DAILY DISTANCES

WADI SHAMASSAT

WADI
RUM
Desert
Camp

Disi
Walks and
optional
camel ride

0 km

65 km

Day 2

6.5km

Day 3

17km

Day 4

13km

Day 5

18km

Day 6

3km

2hrs
7hrs
5/2hrs

9km*

7hrs
45mins

*Optional camel trek

This walking trip covers some of the world’s most magnificent historic and natural sites, including the rock-carved city of Petra and the
breathtaking desert canyons of Wadi Rum. We follow in the footsteps of the ancient Nabateans as we walk along the old spice trails which
connect Petra with the Mediterranean coast, and camp in Bedouin style tents. We also discover other reminders of Jordan’s past when we
visit the Roman city of Jerash and the imposing Crusader castle at Kerak.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4/5

6

7

8

Join trip
in Jordan’s
capital,
Amman.

Drive along
the Desert
Highway to
Wadi Rum.
Walk through
desert
landscapes to
our camp.

Hike amongst
the sandy
gorges and
canyons of
Wadi Rum,
setting for the
film ‘Lawrence
of Arabia’.

Travel to ‘Red
Rose City’ of
Petra. Trek
up to the
Monastery
and along the
ancient spice
trails.

Combine trekking in remote Ethiopia with a visit to
the fascinating rock churches of Lalibela
Ras
Dashen
Debark

One of the best
holidays in my life.
Breathtaking scenery,
fantastic mountains!

Adi Arkay

GONDAR
Es

LALIBELA

e

Simien Mountains
National Park

ba

Jin

Imet Gogo 3926m
Optional hike

r

GEECH

Inatye
4070m

Geech Abyss
Falls

Day 3

5.5km

Day 4

12km

AMBIKWA

Day 5

10km

4hrs

SIMIEN MOUNTAINS

Day 6

13km

8hrs

Bwahit
4430m

Day 7

17km

11hrs

Day 8

21km

10hrs

Day 9

15km

6hrs

Day 10

12km

6hrs

ez
Be
leg

Mesheha

wa

ka

a
er

Ras
Dashen
4543m

Viewpoint
Chiro Leba

SANKABER
ADDIS
ABABA

DAILY DISTANCES

ARKWASIYE

CHENEK

‘

Aleksandra Karc

ETHIOPIA

say

Rock Stone
Churches

S

Debark

0 km

From GONDAR

10 km

2.5hrs
6hrs

Optional Walks

The Simien highlands of northern Ethiopia form one of the major mountain massifs in Africa. A highlight is the ascent to the summit of Ras
Dashen (4543m) - Ethiopia’s highest peak and the fifth highest on the continent. As we trek through this isolated region we admire the
spectacular scenery of rocky plateaus, spires, mesas and deep gorges. On our return we also visit Lalibela, home to the impressive rock-cut
churches.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAYS

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11/12

13

Join trip
in Addis
Ababa,
Ethiopia’s
capital city.

Fly to the
medieval city
of Gondar. Visit
Debre Berhan
Selassie
Church and
Fasiliadas’
castle.

Drive to Debark
gateway to
the Simien
Mountains
National
Park. Trek to
Sankaber

Hike to Geech
camp. Search
for Gelada
baboon and
red-hot poker
plants along
the route.

Optional hike
to viewpoint at
summit of Imet
Gogo (3926m)
with views
across the
Simien range.

Trek to Chenek
camp (3650m)
via Inatye,
escarpment
and Jinbar
river.

Views across
Mesheha
River and Ras
Dashen peak.
Descend to
Ambikwa
village
(3200m).

Book this itinerary
as a Private Trip
with prices from
£3225 pp flight
inclusive.

KENYA

Lemosho
Glades
2100m

BIG TREE
FOREST CAMP
2780m

SHIRA ONE

3500m

SHIRA TWO

Trip code: PJKC

3900m

BARRANCO

Uhuru Peak
5895m

3960m

KILIMANJARO
KARANGA
NP

BARAFU
4640m

4035m

TANZANIA

DAILY DISTANCES

MILLENIUM
CAMP

Mweka Gate
1630m

3790m

MOSHI

Kilimanjaro
Airport
0 km

15 km

Day 2

7km

3.5hrs

Day 3

8.5km

4.5hrs

Day 4

8km

Day 5

10km

7.5hrs

Day 6

6km

4.5hrs

Day 7

6km

4.5hrs

Day 8

19.5km

Day 9

12km

3.5km

4.5/2hrs

14hrs
5.5hrs

Optional Walks

We trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Uhuru Peak (5895m), the highest point in Africa. Following the less-used and scenic Lemosho
route we climb and descend on different paths, walking through the mountain’s different climatic regions and admiring the changing plant
and animal life. Highlights include the ice fields of Kibo, the daunting Barranco Wall and the breathtaking views from the summit itself.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Join trip
in Moshi, a
country town
with great
views of Mount
Kilimanjaro.

Ascend on a
trail through
beautiful
rainforest
from Lemosho
Glades to Big
Tree Camp
(2780m).

Hike across
wild heath
to the camp
at Shira One
(3500m)
enjoying views
of Mount
Meru.

Trek below
the ice fields
of Kibo to our
campsite at
Shira Two
(3900m).

Cross volcanic
landscapes
to the Lava
Tower before
the descent
to Barranco
Valley
(3960m).

Climb the
Barranco
Wall before
reaching
our camp in
the Karanga
Valley
(4035m).

Hike across a
barren lunar
landscape to
our camp at
Barafu
(4640m).

Trek to the
summit at
Uhuru Peak
(5895m)
before the
long descent
to Millennium
Camp (3790m).

Return to
verdant forest
where the trek
ends at Mweka
Gate (1630m)
before driving
back to Moshi.

Opportunity
to take an
optional game
drive in the
morning before
the trip ends in
Moshi.

Relax with 4 days on the
exotic island of Zanzibar.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

82

JAN FEB JUL AUG SEP OCT

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

Trip code: KCZ
Spend 3 days on safari
in some of Tanzania’s
finest national parks.
Trip code: KCS

Insider
View
“Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain
in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world,
was declared a World Natural
Heritage Site in 1987 by UNESCO.
Trekkers hike through five different
climate zones as they ascend to
the summit at 5895m: farmland,
rainforest, heath and moorland,
alpine desert and arctic. In my
experience anyone who is fit
and has physically and mentally
prepared for the trip can reach the
arctic. Although I have done this
many times I still love climbing ‘Kili’
and sharing the pleasure of doing
this with Explore groups – and that
is why I do it. ‘Hakuna matata’.”
Julius ‘Whitey’ White,
Explore Leader

Top 5 reasons to
trek Kilimanjaro
with Explore

1. Our ascent rate is
slow and safe, resulting
in a much higher
than average summit
success rate of 95%

2. Our Kili Trek Leaders
are regularly voted as
among the best in the
world and are first aid
and altitude trained

3. Oxygen cylinders
and Gamow bags are
carried on all treks for
emergency use

or visit explore.co.uk

4. Our local partner is
a long established and
reputable Kilimanjaro
specialist

5. Explore trekking staff
are from the local area
- revenues from our
treks benefit the local
community.

Verdant rainforests and dramatic landscapes are the setting for this hiking adventure in Madagascar. Supported by local porters we get off
the beaten track, trekking through lush tropical vegetation, granite hills, highland meadows, and surreal sandstone landscapes. We also
ascend Madagascar’s highest climbable peak, Pico Imarivolanitra (2658m). En route we hope to see some of the dozen or so species of lemur
living in these protected areas, as well as the unique endemic reptiles and birds, and unusual plants that Madagascar is famous for.

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAY

DAYS

1

2

3/4

5

6/7

8

9/10

11

12

13/14

15

Join trip
in
Antananarivo,
capital of
Madagascar.

Drive south via
Antisarabe to
Ranomafana
National Park.
Set up camp
by the park
entrance.

Get close to nature as we walk through the diverse landscapes of northern KwaZulu-Natal; including the mountainous Drakensbergs, the dry
bushland of Hluhluwe - iMfolozi Reserve, and iSimangaliso Wetlands. Hike to a mountain cave, experience a walking game safari in a ‘Big
Five’ reserve and follow coastal trails. En route we also take game drives, spot estuary hippos and crocodiles, and learn some of the region’s
complex history.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

DAY

10

Join trip
in Umhlanga,
the beach area
just north of
Durban.

Lagoon and
beach walk.
Drive to
Cathedral
Peak in the
Drakensbergs.
Walk to Dorree
Falls.

Walk through
mountains to
Baboon Rock
and Marble
Baths. Learn
about San
Rock Art.

Hike past
Sherman’s
Cave to the top
of Oqalweni
Valley for a
picnic lunch.
Return via One
Tree Hill.

Visit historic
Blood River
battle site
en route to
Hluhluwe and
iMfolozi Big
Five Game
Reserve.

Walking safari
with park
wardens. Open
vehicle game
drive. Stay a
second night
in the lodge
within park.

Early morning
game drive.
Free afternoon
in St Lucia.
Spot hippos
and crocodiles
in the local
river.

Game drive
through
iSimangaliso
Wetlands to
Cape Vidal.
Coastal walk
to Mission
Rocks.

Drive to
Mtunzini.
Follow dune
and forest
coastal trail.
Continue down
the coast to
Umhlanga.

Trip ends
in Umhlanga.

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAY JUN AUG SEP OCT NOV

or visit explore.co.uk

85

THE

Americas

The stunning landscapes of the Americas offer
so many options for different kinds of walks, be
it through dramatic mountain ranges, desert and
canyons, round glacial lakes, along river banks, or
by bubbling geysers – and that’s just some of the
USA, Canada and Patagonia!
You can visit the world’s tallest waterfall in
Venezuela and venture up volcanoes and through
cloudforest in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Then
there’s the incredible wildlife to search for,
including howler monkeys and colourful toucans.
If you prefer some ancient culture, walk along
the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Or delve into both
the past and present of fascinating Cuba with its
colonial towns, lively nightlife and delicious rum
cocktails.

Insider View
There is so much to see and do in
the Americas - from the physical
grandeur of the Andes and Rocky
Mountains, to the historical sites of
the many pre-Colombian cultures
and vibrant modern day cities.
Walkers have similarly broad choices: Classic treks such
as the Inca Trail in Peru and W-Trek in Patagonia offer
challenge and adventure, while other trips explore the
highlights or more off the beaten track side of this diverse
region. The Americas offer something for every level of
walker – And it’s all waiting to be explored!
Jude Berry, Walking Product Manager at Explore

Enjoy hiking in some of the most beautiful scenery on Earth - the spectacular and rugged Rocky Mountains. We visit stunning national
parks including Kootenay, Yoho, Jasper and Banff and discover unspoilt views of jagged mountain peaks, glaciers and waterfalls as we
explore on foot.

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAYS

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAY

1

2

3/4

5/6

7

8

9

10/11

12

13

Join trip
in Calgary.

Drive
Banff, hike
Kananaskis
Lookout Trail
to view point
with stunning
vistas across
the park.

Hike the
beautiful
Burstall Pass
and Edith and
Cory Trails
in Banff
National Park.

Transfer to
Kootenay
National
Park for two
days walking.
Optional visit
to Radium
Hot Spring.

Our first ever urban exploration - in one of the most exciting cities on the planet! There is no better way to experience a city than on foot,
helped along by ferry and metro. At the end of this trip you’ll feel that you have got under the skin of the Big Apple - there’s time to visit the
world-class museums, seek out ethnic restaurants and explore the cityscape. Grab a bagel in Times Square, stroll down the High Line (an
elevated railway line converted into a public park), and dine in Hell’s Kitchen.

Following scenic park trails we discover some of the most spectacular scenery in North America’s national parks. From glaciers and rivers, to
deserts and canyons, hot springs and waterfalls, join us as we view the geysers of Yellowstone National Park, meander amongst the hoodoos
and rock formations of Arches and Canyonlands and hike along the shores of dramatic glacial lakes.

Explore the
Dinosaur
National
Monument,
known for huge
amount of
dinosaur fossils
found there.

Visit
Canyonlands
National Park
and hike to
Chesler Park
viewpoint.

Visit Moab.
Optional
float trip on
the Colorado
River.

Hike through
Arches
National Park
with over
1600 natural
rock arches
sculpted by
the elements.

Visit Salt Lake
City. Return to
Utah’s capital
and enjoy a
walk around
the city centre.

Trip ends
in Salt Lake
City.

Go online for departure dates

MONTHS OF TRAVEL JUN JUL AUG SEP

106

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

Please note:
Early and
late season
departures
will be fully
accommodated
due to the drop
in temperatures.
Please see
website for
details.

Insider
View
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yellowstone is the most fascinating
National Park I have been to. I
did geology A level at school but
had never had the opportunity
to see these natural wonders up
close. The walks in the park are
straightforward and give you the
chance to take some great photos.Â
A surprise and highlight for me was
the wildlife, it was everywhere! The
drive down through the Tetons is
awe-inspiring and the excitement
starts to build knowing you are
going to walk in such a stunning
landscape. Ending the trip in the
Canyonlands area is an amazing
conclusion to a great trip, plenty
of time to explore on foot as well
as participating in some of the
activities in the parks. My main
recommendation is take a good
camera; photo opportunities are
second to none.â&#x20AC;?
Yvonne Ramsay,
Senior Operations Manager
at Explore

Explore stunning and
diverse landcapes in 5 of
the United States’ most
beautiful National Parks.
DAILY DISTANCES
SALT LAKE
CITY
UTAH

NEVADA

Canyonlands NP

Page

LAS VEGAS

Arches NP

MOAB

ZION NP
SPRINGDALE

Historic Route 66

BRYCE
CANYON NP
GRAND
CANYON

ARIZONA
0 km

500 km

Day 2

4.5km

1hrs

Day 3

13.5km

7hrs

Day 4

5.5km

Day 5

9km

Day 6

7.5km

4hrs

Day 7

4.5km

2hrs

Day 8

7km

Day 9

4.5km

3hrs
4km

4.5/2.5hrs

4hrs
2.5hrs

Optional Walks

An exhilarating journey on foot in some of the western United States most beautiful national parks. View the magnificent Grand Canyon, feel
on top of the world at Angel’s Landing, Zion National Park and hike the surreal hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. In between hikes at Arches and
Canyonlands discover your adventurous side in Moab. An amazing trip taking you to some of the most stunning scenery that America has
to offer.

Discover the abundant
wildlife and many volcanoes
of Costa Rica and Nicaragua

Day 2

3km

Day 3

6.5km

3hrs

Day 4

5km

2hrs

Day 5

6km

4hrs

1.5hrs

Day 6

NICARAGUA
El Hoyo
Volcano 1088m

LEON

Managua
Mombacho
Volcano 1344m

GRANADA

ISLA OMETEPE

Cerro Chato 1140m

SAN JOSE

PUERTO VIEJO
DE SARAPIQUÍ

OTS La Selva
Braulio Carrillo NP

3km

3.5hrs

5km

4hrs

Day 13 4km

4hrs

1hr

Optional Walks

COSTA RICA
0 km

Day 9

4.5/2.5hrs

Day 12

LA FORTUNA

1916m

1.5km

Day 11

Maderas Volcano 1394m

Arenal Volcano 1670m

12km

Day 8

Day 10

Concepcion Volcano 1610m

RINCON
DE LA VIEJA

5km

Day 7

180 km

Journey with us through the contrasting Central American countries of Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Hike up volcanoes, discover remote
waterfalls, and learn about tropical forests. Look out for the diverse wildlife living in the tropical forests of the area and wake up to the sound
of howler monkeys. Stay on Ometepe, a volcanic island on Lake Nicaragua, and enjoy the relaxed pace of life there - a contrast to the more
energetic feel of the fascinating colonial cities of Leon and Granada.

An interesting trip
packed with highlights,
including staying in
‘casas particulares’

HAVANA

GULF
OF
MEXICO

Old Havana
Las Terrazas
Natural swimming pools

VINALES

Walks among
mogotes
tobacco farms

CUBA
Santa Clara
Che Guavara mausoleum

DAILY DISTANCES

Topes de Collantes
Walk in nature reserve

Cienfuegos
Bay of
Pigs

TRINIDAD

Colonial architechture

0 km

CARIBBEAN SEA

95 km

Day 2

6km

2hrs

Day 3

7km

3hrs

Day 4
Day 5

12km

Day 6

4km

4hrs
1.5hrs

On this walking trip in western Cuba we experience local hospitality while staying in family-run guesthouses, and hike through some of Cuba’s
best natural tropical reserves. We also discover the glamorous past of Old Havana and the lively musical nightlife of colonial Trinidad. As we
travel we learn about modern day Cuba and its complex past, culminating in a visit to the mausoleum of the national hero Che Guevara.

Casas Particulares
Gain a unique insight into Cuban life staying with
local families in casas particulares (Spanish for
‘private houses’) in Havana, Trinidad and Vinales.
Experience Cuban hospitality in houses adapted
for visitors. Some are still family homes while
others have become small guesthouses. Please
see website for more details.

Go online for departure dates

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

Insider
View
“Cuba is unique and one of my all
time favourites countries. All those
clichés come true – the best rum
and cigars, a rush hour medley
of classic ‘50s and soviet cars,
infectious live music and dancing
wherever you go, revolutionary
propaganda in place of capitalist
advertising... Cuba is caught in a
fascinating time warp and the local
people and warm Latin culture are
the icing on the cake. This beautiful
island is best seen on an active
holiday that takes you off the
beaten track. If you get the chance
stay with local people in casas
particulares as this offers a great
insight into real Cuba.”
James Adkin,
Cycling Programme Manager
at Explore

Highlights included all the walking in the
National Parks and having cold beer and
cocktails as a reward for the hard work.
Ian Bennett

GULF
OF
MEXICO

HAVANA
City tour

‘

DAILY DISTANCES

Cienfuegos

TRINIDAD

Day 6

8km

5km
1.5km

4/3hrs
4/1hrs

Day 8

6km

Day 9

8km

4hrs
4hrs

Day 10

10km

5hrs

Day 11

8km

3.5hrs

6km

2hrs

Day 12

Santa Clara
Bay of
Pigs

12km

Day 7

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Las Terrazas
Rainforest walk

Day 5

Hikes in the
Guamuhaya Massif

TOPES DE
COLLANTES

Day 13
Day 14
CAMAGUEY

Optional Walks

CUBA
CARIBBEAN SEA

BAYAMO
SANTO DOMINGO

0 km

Pico Turquino 1972m 2-day trek
Comandancia de la Plata 1-day trek

135 km

SANTIAGO
City tour

Join us in Cuba as we uncover the island’s revolutionary history and explore colonial cities including Havana and Trinidad. We walk through
jungle to the revolution’s secret headquarters in the Sierra Maestra Mountains and visit Che Guevara’s mausoleum in Santa Clara. We swim
under waterfalls, follow forest trails and trek to the summit of Pico Turquino - Cuba’s highest peak.

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAYS

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

DAY

1

2

3/4

5/6

7

8

9/10

11

12/13

14

15

Join trip
in Havana,
Cuba’s
fascinating
capital.

Tour Old
Havana,
absorbing the
atmosphere
of this vibrant
city.

Travel via
the historic
Bay of Pigs
to the lively
colonial town
of Trinidad.

Walk forested
mountain
trails and
swim under
waterfalls
in Topes de
Collantes
National Park.

Travel to
Bayamo via
the Valley
of the Sugar
Mills and
the colonial
town of Sancti
Spiritus.

Walk through
the jungle
to Fidel
Castro’s secret
headquarters
in the Sierra
Maestra
Mountains.

Amazing to have the
opportunity to climb Mount
Roraima and to see the
Angel Falls.
Christopher Brown

CARIBBEAN SEA

Caribbean beach

CARACAS

CIUDAD
BOLIVAR

DAILY DISTANCES

Puerto
Ordaz

VENEZUELA
CANAIMA
Angel Falls
975m drop

4-day
canoe
trip

KAMARATA

Goldmining
town
El Dorado

KAMA
Roraima
2810m
ELENA 6-day
trek

Indian village
Perapaitepui
0 km

SANTA

280 km

‘

Day 4

12km

4hrs

Day 5

8km

4hrs

Day 6

8km

4hrs

Day 7

15km

7hrs

Day 8

16km

5hrs

Day 9

12km

4hrs

Optional Walks

On this pioneering adventure to Venezuela we travel deep into territory virtually unknown to the outside world. Canoeing to Canaima we
discover the awe-inspiring Angel Falls - the world’s tallest waterfall. We also trek to the summit of the table mountain of Roraima and marvel
at the spectacular views of tropical forest and lush grassland, which inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s novel ‘The Lost World’.

DAY

DAYS

DAYS

DAYS

DAYS

DAYS

DAY

1

2/3

4/5

6/7

8/9

10-13

14

15

Join trip
in Caracas,
the capital of
Venezuela.

Travel across
Orinoco River
to Kama via
Ciudad Bolivar
and famous
gold mining
area of El
Dorado.

Trek from the
small Indian
village of
Peraitepui to
the flat topped
mountain of
Roraima.

Trek to summit
(2810m) for
breathtaking
views to the
neighbouring
tabletop
mountains.

Descend via
Tek River to
Peraitepui
and drive to
Santa Elena de
Uarien.

Book this itinerary
as a Private Trip with
prices from £1895 pp
flight inclusive.

Stay away from the
crowds in quiet campsites

Trip code: PJPQ

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

Veronica
5750m

AGUAS CALIENTES

Machu
Picchu
Winay-Wayna

With a 4 day Amazon extension. Please
refer to website for more details.

To Ollantaytambo/
Cusco

Inti Punku

Salkantay
6271m

Runkuraqay
Pass 3950m

LLULLUCHAPAMPA

DAILY DISTANCES

LLAQTAPATA
Wayllabamba

Paucarkancha
Ocobamba
5126m

Wamantay
5917m
0 km

Trip code: PQA

Piscacucho
82km

PHUYUPATAMARCA

Inca Tunnel
Sayaqmarka
Warmiwanusca
Pass 4200m

9 km

Day 4

6km

Day 5

12km

2.5hrs
6hrs

Day 6

15km

9hrs

Day 7

12km

Day 8

1/1.5km

6hrs
2/3hrs

Optional Walks

Join us as we walk along the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. We learn about traditional
Andean culture on our four-day trek to ‘The Lost City’ and pass other fascinating Inca ruins en route. We also discover the Sacred Valley, visit
lively Pisac Market and explore the historic city of Cusco. For a contrast to the mountains and cloudforests of the trail this trip can also be
extended to include the Amazon jungle.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Join trip
in Cusco,
the ancient
capital city
of the Incas.
Relax and
acclimatise to
the altitude.

Explore the
fascinating city
of Cusco on
foot.

Visit to Pisac
Market.
Opportunity to
whitewater raft
in the Sacred
Valley.

Drive via the
Sacred Valley
to start of the
Inca Trail.
Walk to first
campsite in
Llaqtapata
(2625m).

Camping and trek crew
Avoid the crowds on our three
night trek and camp away from the
main campsites. Two-man tents are
provided with plenty of room for two
people and bags. The trek is fully
supported by our team of porters who
set up and take down the tents, and
a cook. Our porters also carry water
and all bags except daysacks, under
strict guidelines.

Insider
View
â&#x20AC;&#x153;When the chance came up to
visit Peru and trek the Inca Trail,
I grabbed it, what an amazing
opportunity and a huge tick on my
bucket list. Our Explore Leader
was professional and fun and
this meant we could just relax
and enjoy the trip, not having to
think about anything other than
enjoying what Peru has to offer.
The Inca Trail did not disappoint,
the trek was fabulous, great views
around every corner. I loved every
minute, it was breathtaking, fun and
exciting with many WOW moments.
We saw so much - and the views
changed every few minutes along
with the weather. The flowers,
birdlife, mountain scenery and
arriving to Machu Picchu were all
out of this world! I have a lifetime of
memories - could it get any better
than that?â&#x20AC;?
Becky Powney,
Customer Support Manager
at Explore

Top 5 reasons to
trek the Inca
Trail with Explore

1. Led by our
experienced Explore
Leaders our four day
trek is designed to stay
away from the crowds

2. Full service
camping is provided
including three hearty
meals a day served in
a dining tent

3. You only carry a
daysack; porters carry
your main luggage and
all camping equipment
under strict guidelines

or visit explore.co.uk

4. We allow three
nights in Cusco to
acclimatise to the
altitude before the trek

5. Our trek crew are all
local people ensuring
surrounding
communities benefit
from your visit

Explore the highlights of Peru on this fascinating journey through southern Peru. Along the way we discover Lake Titicaca, the birthplace of
the Inca civilisation. From Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, we travel into the Sacred Valley to begin our four-day trek along the Inca Trail to
the impressive mountain citadel of Machu Picchu. This trip can be extended to include the Amazon jungle.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAYS

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5/6

7/10

11

12

13

Join trip
in Lima, Peru’s
vibrant capital
city.

Fly to Juliaca.
City tour of
Puno, on
shores of Lake
Titicaca. Rest
of the day to
acclimatise.

On this tour of Southern Peru we journey along the Pacific Coast to the mysterious Nazca Lines, up to the ‘White City’ of Arequipa and on to the
impressive Colca Canyon. At Lake Titicaca we visit Taquile Island and stay in a local village guesthouse. We learn more about the ancient ‘Inca
Empire of the Sun’ as we enjoy a four-day trek following the famous Inca Trail to the archaeological jewel, Machu Picchu. En route we hike through
majestic mountain scenery, past impressive Inca ruins and amongst cloudforest. We also explore the vibrant former Inca capital of Cusco.

Discover the Salkantay Trek - so much more than an alternative to the Inca Trail. Supported by our experienced trek team we ascend to
Salkantay Pass (4525m) overlooked by the magnificent snow covered Mount Salkantay (6271m) and glacier. Taking in the views of the
Vilcabamba range we descend through tropical forest and small mountain villages. A final ascent takes us to Abra Q’ellopasa (2860m) and
down to Ahobamba Valley for a short mountain train ride to Aguas Calientes, from where we visit the famous Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Join trip
in historic
Cusco
(3400m),
capital city of
the Incas.

Discover Inca
ruins in the
colonial heart
of Cusco while
acclimatising
to the altitude.

Opportunity to
whitewater raft
in the Sacred
Valley. Visit to
Pisac Market.

Drive via
Tarawasi and
Mollepata to
Markakasa.
Walk to
campsite at
Soraypampa
(3800m).

Join us on a hiking trip to Patagonia, walking through the glaciers and peaks of the stunning mountain areas of Fitzroy and Torres del Paine.
Trek through the lake region below the impressive Mount Fitzroy, and hike the famous ‘W Trek’ from Lago Grey to Las Torres for views of
the iconic Paine Towers. En route we also explore Perito Moreno Glacier and discover the fascinating city of Buenos Aires.

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAY

DAYS

DAYS

DAYS

DAY

DAYS

1

2

3

4

5

6/7

8/9

10/11

12

13/14

15

Join trip
in the lively
city of Buenos
Aires.

Tour of this
vibrant city
known as the
‘Paris of South
America’.

Fly to El
Calafate. Bus
to El Chalten,
a small border
town close to
Mount Fitzroy.

Hike from El
Pilar to Laguna
de los Tres.
Camp among
the stunning
mountain
scenery.

Follow the
Madre e Hija
Trail to Laguna
Torre, and on
to El Chalten.

Optional trip
to the stunning
Viedma
Glacier where
can take.
an ice trek.
Drive to
El Calafate.

Our self-guided trips enable you to walk on your
own, or with a partner/friends at your own pace.
We still take care of all the logistics, transfer your
luggage and provide route notes and maps but
you decide your own schedule.
You can choose the best date to suit your travel
plans, starting on any day of the week. Pick from
a range of fabulous walks from moderately easy
to more challenging in some of the best settings
in Europe - and feel free to linger longer over that
stupendous view or luscious ice cream!

Insider View
Dawn and dusk are my favourite
times when travelling – on a selfguided trip the choice is yours
whether to start at first light with the
sound of cockerels, or alternatively
have a relaxing swim or a lie in
before setting off. Keen to get to the destination pronto –
skip lunch. Stumble across a taverna which unexpectedly
deserves an extra couple of hours of your life – just go
with the flow. Want to take advantage of the cheapest
flights? Choose midweek travel. Whether to go for spring
flowers or autumnal colours? It is your decision. I’ve led
many group walking trips and been a customer too, but
sometimes its lovely to be by yourself and be master of
your own destiny (at least for a week!).
John Telfer, Product Director at Explore

Follow the Rota Vicentina along the coast to Cabo Sao Vicente, the south-western most point of Portugal and continental Europe. Hike
between villages through the natural park of ‘Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina’. Follow the marked trail along cliff tops, among dunes
and beside rocky shorelines. En route relax on beautiful unspoilt golden sand beaches and enjoy the local food and wine.

DED W

New
Trip

PICK
YOUURRE

DEPARTE
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights
premium hotel, 3 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners
are included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
6 days for an average of 5.5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

Experience authentic Catalonia’s rich cultural and natural beauty walking from the foothills of the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean. Walk through
extinct volcanoes, beech woods and ancient farmlands to medieval villages and towns. Take the stunning coastal walk from L’Estartit to L’Escala
and visit the impressive Greek and Roman archaeological site of Empuries. En route discover the famed Catalonian hospitality and cuisine.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

On this self-guided walking holiday to Andalucia discover the mountainous area of Sierra de Grazalema. Explore the sculpted limestone
hillsides and historic white-washed local villages. Walk through shady olive groves, woods of cork oak trees and Spanish fir forests. Discover
the Moorish town of Ronda, built on both sides of a deep gorge. In the evenings relax with some tapas and a glass of local wine.

Walk self-guided along this iconic pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela - the reputed final resting place of Saint James. Starting in Sarria,
hike through the Galician hills and rural countryside along the Camino Frances, following the waymarker scallop shell signs. Make the traditional
stop at the spring in Lavacollato to wash your hands and feet before arriving at Santiago cathedral, and claiming the pilgrims’ certificate.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

or visit explore.co.uk

123

FROM

£480

TRIP ONLY

8

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSPI
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Moderate

LK

UI

A

SPAIN

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Picos de Europa to Coast

IN G

SELF GUIDED

DED W

New
Trip

PICK
YOUURRE

DEPARTE
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners
are included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
6 days for between 3.5 to 6.5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

FROM

£630

TRIP ONLY

LK

UI

A

SPAIN (CANARY ISLANDS)

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Gran Canaria

IN G

Starting in the relaxed rural town of Arenas de Cabrales in the foothills of the northern Picos de Europa, this self-guided trip takes you from the
beautiful mountains, valleys and rivers of the Picos to the quiet beaches of the Bay of Biscay. Hikes include the stunning Cares Gorge where the
path is carved out of the surrounding rock, a trail along an ancient ‘Camino Real’ on the slopes of Sierra de Cuera, and coastal paths.

Discover great walking trails on this self-guided walking holiday to Gran Canaria. This journey takes you from east to west of the island
through dramatic and varied volcanic landscapes, often on classic paths, ‘Canimos Reales’. Hike through Guayadeque Gorge, to the summit
of the island’s highest peak - Pico de la Nieves (1949m), and around the distinctive landmark of Roque Nublo as you explore the island.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

Enjoy year-round warm temperatures and beautiful scenery while taking self-guided walks on these two close but diverse islands. Hike
Tenerife’s iconic volcano El Teide, and explore ‘Paisaje Lunar’, then discover La Gomera’s lush Garajonay National Park, typical terraced
plantations and black sand beaches. On a clear day, you can see the distinctive outline of Tenerife from La Gomera’s coastal paths and hills.

DED W

New
Trip

PICK
YOUURRE

DEPARTE
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 6 breakfasts are
included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
5 days for an average of 4.5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Follow trails through the striking Tramuntana Mountains that separate the beautiful north-west coast of Mallorca from the rest of the island.
Walk between picturesque villages, along coastal cliffs and through orchards of orange, almond and olive trees. Relax on pretty beaches,
and in village cafés sampling the local Mallorca cuisine.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

or visit explore.co.uk

125

FROM

£865

TRIP ONLY

LK

UI

A

FRANCE

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Walking in Provence

IN G

SELF GUIDED

DED W

7

DAYS

PICK
YOUTURRE

TRIP CODE: WSPR
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Easy to
Moderate

DEPAR E
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 6 breakfasts, 3 dinners
are included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
6 days for an average of 5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL MAR APR MAY JUN SEP OCT NOV

FROM

£1420

TRIP ONLY

LK

UI

A

FRANCE - ITALY - SWITZERLAND

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc

IN G

Explore the rugged limestone landscapes of the Plateau de Vaucluse. Walking routes traverse a landscape where steep cliffs and deep
canyons alternate with peaceful villages, mysterious ‘bories’ (circular drystone huts) and the Abbaye de Sénanque, beautifully situated
among fields of lavender. There is really only one drawback to Provence and the Vaucluse: you will never want to leave.

DED W

11

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSMB
ACCOMMODATION: Simple
WALK GRADE: Challenging

PICK
YOUTURRE

DEPAR E
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights
simple mountain hut, 4 nights
simple hotel.
MEALS: 10 breakfasts and 10
dinners are included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
10 days for an average of 6
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between mountain huts
and hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL JUN JUL AUG SEP

The iconic Mont Blanc Circuit offers exhilarating trekking through spectacular alpine landscapes of dramatic snow-capped peaks and lush,
idyllic valleys. Hiking through France, Italy and Switzerland, you will discover the rich fauna and flora of the Alps and the unique architecture
and cuisine of each country. Overnighting in beautifully located mountain huts, hearty meals provide energy for the breathtaking walks.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

126

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

FROM

£690

TRIP ONLY

LK

UI

A

ITALY

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Portofino and the Cinque Terre

IN G

SELF GUIDED

DED W

8

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSCTL
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Moderate

PICK
YOUTURRE

DEPAR E
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights
standard hotel, 1 night simple
hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts are
included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
6 days for an average of 5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between the hotels in
Bonassola and Monterosso.
5 DAY OPTION AVAILABLE:
We also offer a shorter
self-guided holiday in the same
area. Trip code: WSCT.
MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

FROM

£625

TRIP ONLY

8

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSCL
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Moderate

LK

UI

A

ITALY

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Trails of Como and Lugano

IN G

Hike the trails of the Ligurian Riviera from the jet-set seaside town of Portofino to the colourful harbour of Portovenere. Enjoy stunning coastal
views each day and discover the rugged cliff coast, quiet forests and picturesque, lively fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. Savour the
delicious local cuisine and wines. A self-guided walking holiday that offers a true taste of ‘la dolce vita’.

DED W

New
Trip

PICK
YOUURRE

DEPARTE
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts are
included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
6 days for an average of 5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

Beautiful lakes Como and Lugano have been a popular holiday destination since Roman times. Lavish villas and sumptuous gardens line their
shores. Away from the lakeside, you can hike numerous trails to explore quiet forested valleys, mountain tops and traditional villages which have
retained their unique character. You will also have time to visit beautiful villas, churches and castles, and enjoy the region’s excellent cuisine.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

Enjoy exhilarating hikes among the dramatic limestone mountains, jagged peaks and alpine meadows of the Dolomites’ Sella Group, Val
Gardena and Val di Fassa. These magnificent landscapes are home to a rich variety of wildlife including marmots and chamois, and an
extraordinary variety of flowers that bloom in their thousands in spring and summer.

Hike through the magnificent landscapes of the Dolomites; dramatic limestone cliffs and snow-capped peaks, picture-perfect alpine pastures
and idyllic meadows. This German-speaking part of Italy boasts a unique and delicious cuisine and a rich variety of wildlife and flowers. Walk
across the Fanes-Sennes Nature Reserve to San Vigilio di Marebbe, overnighting in beautifully located rifugi (mountain lodges).
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

128

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

FROM

£675

TRIP ONLY

LK

UI

A

ITALY

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Tuscan Trails - Florence to Siena

IN G

SELF GUIDED

DED W

8

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSTC
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Easy to
Moderate

PICK
YOUTURRE

DEPAR E
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts are
included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
6 days for an average of 5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

FROM

£545

TRIP ONLY

8

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSVF
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Moderate

LK

UI

A

ITALY

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Walk Via Francigena to Rome

IN G

Discover magnificent cities, picturesque villages and a landscape of rolling hills and vineyards walking through Chianti country, from
Renaissance Florence to Medieval Siena. Hike along cypress-lined country roads and ‘strade bianche’ white gravel tracks, traversing forests
of oak, beech and chestnut. Reward your efforts sampling the delicious Tuscan cuisine and fine wines to be found along the way.

DED W

New
Trip

PICK
YOUURRE

DEPARTE
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts are
included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
6 days for between 6 to 7
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

The Via Francigena is a medieval pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome. This holiday walks the final 126 kilometres, passing through
a landscape of shady forests and gently rolling hills, sometimes walking on sections of ancient Roman road and stopping at several typical
Italian towns until finally entering the heart of the fabulous ‘Eternal City’ Rome, where you claim your pilgrims’ certificate.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

or visit explore.co.uk

129

FROM

£590

TRIP ONLY

LK

UI

A

ITALY

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Amalfi Coast Trails

IN G

SELF GUIDED

DED W

8

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSAC
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Easy to
Moderate

PICK
YOUTURRE

DEPAR E
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts are
included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
6 days for between 3 to 4
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

FROM

£475

TRIP ONLY

LK

UI

A

ITALY

S E L F- G

Self-Guided Walk Sicily and the Aeolian Islands

IN G

A holiday that is all about enjoying the Italian way of life; good food and wine, the sun and the sea. Visit the panoramic Amalfi Coast and the
magnificent Bay of Naples with the volcanic Mount Vesuvius towering on the horizon. Spend a day walking on the beautiful island of Capri,
hike along the scenic coastal ‘Path of the Gods’, visit bustling fishing villages and go for a dip in the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea.

DED W

8

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSSI
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Moderate

PICK
YOUTURRE

DEPAR E
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts are
included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
5 days for an average of 4.5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

Hike the lava strewn slopes of Sicily’s brooding Mount Etna, Europe’s largest volcano, 3323m above sea level. Hop by boat between the tiny Aeolian
Islands and climb their volcanic cones which rise, sometimes smoking, out of an intensely turquoise sea. Daily life passes slowly here, following the
rhythm of the seasons. Enjoy panoramic walks, wonderful beaches and the excellent fresh Sicilian food and wine.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

Explore south-west Crete on this self-guided walking holiday that takes in an impressive coastline, the beautiful White Mountains and famous
Samaria Gorge. Hike at your own pace and enjoy the changing scenery of natural beaches, fir forests, mountains and gorges. En route walk
into the quiet car-free village of Loutro and enjoy meals at seaside and hillside tavernas as you hike down time-worn trails.

DED W

8

DAYS

TRIP CODE: WSNS
ACCOMMODATION: Standard
WALK GRADE: Easy to
Moderate

PICK
YOUTURRE

DEPAR E
DAT

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights
standard hotel.
MEALS: 7 breakfasts are
included.
WALKING DETAILS: Walks on
5 days for between 1.5 to 5.5
hours. Please see website for
more details.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER: Included
transfer between hotels.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT

Discover two beautiful islands of the Cyclades - Santorini and Naxos - on this self-guided walking holiday. Santorini, a volcanic island shaped
by a dramatic eruption thousands of years ago, is known for its whitewashed houses and black beaches. Naxos is an island of contrasts with
some lively resorts co-existing with traditional rural areas. Exploring on foot takes you to the heart of both of these islands.
Price is per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.

or visit explore.co.uk

131

LLLLLLLLL

LLLLLLLLL

About Explore Walking Trips
Please read carefully through the following information about booking an Explore
Walking Adventure.
When you book (whether by phone, travel agent or online), you will be asked if you have read and understood
these pages, as well as our Booking Conditions and Trip Notes.

Frequently Asked Questions
Who travels on Explore trips?

Your travel companions come from a wide range of locations and backgrounds.
However, because we only offer English-speaking trips, the majority will be from
the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US. Everyone will share
your passion for adventure travel.

What is a typical group size?

The size of the group on group trips usually ranges from between 8-12 people;
the average maximum group size is usually 16 people, depending on the type of
trip, the transport and accommodation used and activities included.

What is our price guarantee?

Once we have confirmed your booking we guarantee the price won’t change: we
will not pass on surcharges of any kind. Unlike many other tour operators we will
not pass on unexpected additional costs like fuel surcharges and tax increases.

What about trip prices?

The prices shown in this brochure are for guidance only. They represent the basic
per person cost of the trip at the time of publication of this brochure. For Private
Trips and self-guided trips the price stated is per person based on two people
sharing. The price at the time of booking may be different. The latest guide prices
for each trip departure can be found on our website: explore.co.uk

What’s included in the trip price?

Transport, meals and accommodation: all details are outlined in the
individual trip itinerary.
Explore Leader: the services of an Explore Leader are included on all group
trips. In most cases they will accompany you for the full duration of the trip.
Local crew: as well as drivers and local guides, interpreters, cooks, helpers
and porters may be provided on some trips (details will be outlined in the
individual Trip Notes).
Activities, equipment, sightseeing and visits: please see individual Trip Notes
for details.
For Private Trips we include accommodation, transport and meals as outlined
in the individual trip itinerary.

Are transfers included?

We are pleased to be able to include airport transfers for customers booking a
flight inclusive or land only trip where the flight arrives on the same day the trip

132

starts and departs on the day the trip ends at the designated airport. Where trips
join and end at the designated overseas airport, one arrival and one departure
transfer will be provided for the whole group. In order to be included in this
transfer please ensure that you arrive at the designated airport for the given
joining time and book flights departing after the given ending time. Please refer
to your trip notes or joining information for further details and see explore.co.uk/
transfers. You are responsible for telling us your flight details and keeping us
updated with any changes.

What’s not included?

The price of the trip does not include: visa fees, vaccinations, travel insurance
premiums, passport costs, international departure taxes, excess baggage
charges, optional tours and excursions, hotel porters or meals (other than those
we list as included). We also do not include items of a personal nature; such as
laundry, room service charges, drinks or phone calls. Tips for personal service
are not included and are usually expected. If you book on a ‘Trip Only’ basis we
do not include flights or trains from the UK or departure taxes. For Private Trips
we do not include the services of an Explore Leader or local guides.

What about Explore Leaders? (not applicable to Private Trips and

self-guided trips)
Our Leaders’ main responsibility is to make sure that all members of the group
are well looked after and return home having had a wonderful holiday with some
fantastic memories. It is the Leader’s responsibility to ensure that the trip runs
smoothly and that all the logistics are in place; also to oversee the health and
safety aspects of the trip.
Our Explore Leaders will be as flexible as possible - within the confines of the
itinerary. For example, they can arrange group meals for those that would like to
eat with their travel companions. Alternatively, if you would prefer to make your
own plans they may offer suggestions for local restaurants. They will also try to
make sure that everyone has as much free time during the trip as they wish.
In order to keep the trip running effectively, Explore Leaders give regular briefings
to talk about what is happening in the next few days, to remind you of timings and
what you need to bring for excursions, sightseeing and activities. Often this will be
reiterated on notices put up in hotel receptions or other appropriate places.
Explore Leaders will also brief the group on safety and general health issues. All
Explore Leaders are carefully selected and have undergone thorough training
in the UK and/or overseas which is generally accepted to be some of the best in
the industry. Explore Leaders are chosen for their travel experience, their people
skills and their experience of working with groups. Please note that a small

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ABOUT EXPLORE WALKING TRIPS

number of trips are accompanied by local representatives instead. This will not
affect the enjoyment of your holiday and will be outlined clearly in the individual
Trip Notes.

Do I need an ability to swim?

On of our trips there will be water-based activities, boat excursions or swimming
opportunities. For your personal safety and enjoyment, an ability to swim is
therefore strongly recommended

What are the age limits?

The minimum age on all group trips featured in this brochure is 14. Our minimum
age for trips travelling at high altitude is 16 years old. If you are booking a Private
Trip please talk to us at the time of booking about the ages of your party. A
parent or adult must accompany people under the age of 18.
Fitness and stamina are more important than age. We often find some of our
older customers are the fittest in the group! Whilst we don’t have a maximum
age, we do recognise that at some point during our customers’ journey with us,
they will reach an age where we will have to review their fitness and ability to
participate in the trips they’ve chosen to book. Should you be 80 or older at time
of travel we will ask you to get your GP to complete and sign a form confirming
your fitness to travel. Explore will send this to you at the time of enquiry.

What are the itineraries like?

We offer a wide variety of experiences and activities which allow you to really
get to know an area and to see beyond the normal tourist facade. Of course we
include the better known sights but we understand that you should have the
flexibility to do your own thing so we build in free time for you to either take
part in an optional excursion or to explore independently - an important part of
any trip.

What type of accommodation is there?

Wherever possible, we try to include accommodation which best reflects the
local area in which we are travelling. Where we use hotels, we aim for mid-range
accommodation, with the key requirements being cleanliness, safety, comfort
and a good location. (The type of room provided and the level of facilities may
vary from place to place.) We may use simple hotels with more basic amenities.
Please see the individual Trip Notes for details. All our accommodation is given a
rating to describe standards and facilities. You can find this in the individual Trip
Notes.

What about rooming?

Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a
group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex.
However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book
a single room. On some of these trips a single room will be provided every night,
on others it will be provided on some nights, but for logistical reasons not all.
Individual Trip Notes clarify this. Please note that on rare occasions it may be
necessary for customers in single rooms to share bathroom facilities. On some
trips shared dorm-style accommodation is used. Where this is the case it will be
mentioned in our trip notes.

What kind of meals are included?

Most trips include breakfast, but other meals are often not included. This allows
you to try the cuisine in local restaurants and also to choose what and where to
eat and how much to spend. We try to keep all-inclusive accommodation to a
minimum. Where there is no option, such as when camping, on safari or on some
boat-based trips, meals tend to be included. We try to cater for you if you have
special dietary requirements but we do ask you to have realistic expectations. In
some countries there is a limited choice of food and it may be difficult to cater for
all special meal requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking if you
have any specific dietary requirements.

What type of transport will there be?

The variety of transport used is another important aspect of any Explore
Adventure. We use everything from buses, boats and trains to camels and
donkeys. You may even find all these on the same trip.

What about trip changes?

From time to time, some elements of our trips may change from those that have
been published. This could be the result of inclement weather, a change in the
local political situation or in flight or train schedules or other circumstances
beyond our control. We will keep you as well informed as possible about these
changes. Significant changes to your holiday will be notified as soon as we
feasibly can. Minor amendments to your trip will be detailed on your final trip
documentation, although our website will be regularly updated should you wish
to check the information at any time. You will be provided with a provisional
list of your accommodation shortly after booking. Whilst we expect to stay at
the accommodation stated, please note that this is subject to change to an
equivalent or higher standard at any time.

What are guaranteed departures?

We guarantee that the advertised “Trip Only” itinerary will not be cancelled
or significantly changed unless we are forced to do so by “force majeure”
(as defined in our Booking Conditions). There is no minimum group size. This
guarantee does not apply to international or UK domestic flights, which may be
subject to change or cancellation in accordance with our Booking Conditions.

What is adventure travel?

Travelling to far-flung corners of the earth involves adapting to living conditions
that are often very different from your own. Please be prepared for unusual
situations, local differences and unpredictable events. Adventure holidays
are not necessarily suitable for people who expect to be pampered or who
like everything to go exactly as planned. You should also be aware that some
countries around the world have security problems. Unsavoury characters are
likely to be active in big cities and street markets; and certain areas may be
considered ‘out-of-bounds’ for tourists. However, most crime is opportunistic.
Using your common sense will reduce the risks. Unfortunately, no destination
can be guaranteed to be safe from terrorism. We constantly monitor the political
situation in the regions we visit and will re-route or cancel a trip if we feel it is
necessary. If you are concerned about your safety when visiting a particular
destination, please contact the Foreign Office or the appropriate embassy. For
details see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

What about seating on flights and trains?

Although we are unable to assign specific flight or train seats, it is possible to
put special requests through to the majority of airlines and train operators. If you
have a special request, please tell us at the time of booking. Please be aware
that no guarantee can be made that your request will be successful. Failure
to grant your request will not be a breach of contract on our part. Sometimes
your allocated seats will not be close to other members of your party. We
recommended that you check in for your flight or train as early as possible in
order to have the best chance of being given alternative seats. If you require
specific seats because of a disability or reduced mobility or a medical condition,
please make this clear at the time of booking. Subject to safety requirements and
availability, EU airlines are required to make all reasonable efforts to arrange
seating to meet the requirements of individuals with a disability or reduced
mobility. You may be required to provide written confirmation of your disability,
reduced mobility or medical condition and fitness to travel from your doctor.

What about in-flight meals?

Although meals are still provided on most international flights, you should be
aware that there is a trend towards them not being included on shorter flights,
and particularly those within Europe. On many routes with connections within
Europe, a meal will be provided on the inter-continental sector, but not on the
sector between the UK and the connecting European airport. We cannot therefore
guarantee that a meal will be provided on all flights.
If you have a special dietary requirement, please let us know at the time of
booking. We will send an automated request through to the airline. Please be
aware that in most cases airlines do not confirm individual meal requests, so it is
worth double checking that the meal has been ordered at check-in.

What happens when there is a flight schedule change?

When you book a flight-inclusive trip with Explore, your holiday confirmation
will contain provisional flight details. The timings, flight numbers or route
could change several times before departure. We will confirm final timings
with your final documents. We will notify you immediately of any significant
airline schedule change which occurs after your tickets have been issued. We
recommend that you defer booking any connecting travel to the airport or
arrangements such as car parking or overnight hotels until you have received
your final documents, with confirmed travel times. Where Explore are arranging
domestic regional flights, these will be automatically rebooked to connect with
your international flights. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase nonflexible, non-refundable connecting rail, air or bus tickets, as they usually incur
cancellation or penalty charges in the event of a change to the departure time or
date.

What about banned airlines?

In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 Article 9, we are required
to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community List” which contains
details of air carriers which are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The
Community List is available for inspection at www.europa.eu. In accordance
with EU Regulations we are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or,
if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your
international flight(s) to and from an EU airport at the time of booking. Where
we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we
shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become
aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been
confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom
you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban and,
as a result, we or the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative, the
provisions of our Booking Conditions “If we change your trip” will apply. Please
note that we will not book our customers onto banned airlines whose flights may
be available for general sale and accessible to the public.

What about aircraft weight restrictions?

For the purposes of flight safety, it is essential that you adhere to the luggage
weight restrictions imposed by the airline you are flying with, particularly when
flying on internal flights on smaller aircraft.

How physically fit do I need to be?

All our trips require some level of active participation. It is in the interests of all
members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating
in the activities of their chosen trip. With this in mind, please be aware that (as

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133

ABOUT EXPLORE WALKING TRIPS

detailed in our Booking Conditions) if it is felt that any customer is not able to
participate in a trip without endangering the health or safety of themselves or
any other person (including other group members), or that the presence of the
customer on the trip means we will be unable to provide the trip, in whole or
part, to other members of the group as advertised and contracted, the Explore
Leader at any stage has the right to require them to leave the trip. To ensure
that this is never necessary, please make sure that you have fully understood
the level of fitness and ability required to complete the trip on which you are
booking. It is your responsibility to let us know if you have any concerns related
to this subject. If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect
your trip arrangements in any way, you must provide us with full details at the
time of booking. In certain circumstances, usually on more challenging walking
and trekking trips, we may require you to provide proof of medical fitness
before travelling.

What if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

If you, your travelling companions, or anyone upon whom your travel depends
(such as a friend or family member) have a pre-existing medical condition, you
must disclose this to the insurer’s medical screening helpline when you make
your booking. Failure to do so may result in your claim being declined. Please
ensure that you receive written confirmation from them that the condition is
covered. You must take this written confirmation with you on trip, in addition to
the insurance policy itself. If you don’t, you may not have appropriate cover. We
reserve the right to cancel your booking at any point in time if you do not fully
insure your pre-existing medical conditions.

We strongly recommend that you read their comments about the country you
are planning to visit, both when you book and again just before you leave
and that you sign up to the government travel alert service. For the UK, the
FCO alert service can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/
email-signup. We monitor FCO travel warnings and advice and based on them,
may cancel trips before departure, or re-route or make other changes to trips
operating in or through the country concerned. Any decision we take about
whether to operate or cancel a trip or make other changes will always be made
in the interests of your safety and security. We will make these decisions at
least four weeks before departure, unless we believe that local conditions will
improve before the start of the trip.

How can I be best prepared?

Whilst we endeavour to provide as much information as possible in our
brochure and individual Trip Notes regarding the areas our trips travel to, we
would always recommend that you undertake some background research
about the places you will be visiting and the type of climate and local
conditions you can expect in order to get the most out of your holiday.

What about brochure and website accuracy?

The information contained in our brochure, website and other advertising
material is believed to be correct at the time of printing or publication. However,
this information may subsequently change. Please ensure that you check all
the details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us at the time of
booking.
2595

What about consumer peace of mind?

What about travel insurance?

You must have valid travel insurance. You will need to confirm to your Explore
Leader that you are covered by a travel insurance policy at the start of the trip.
Please ensure that your documentation shows you as the named policyholder
and that the cover is valid for the entire period of travel. It must also indicate
that you have cover for (at least) Medical Expenses and Emergency Repatriation
in the event of illness or injury. Please ensure that a 24 hour contact telephone
number for your Insurance Company is written on your documentation in case
of an emergency. If you are unable to provide this information at the start of
the trip you will not be able to continue with us unless you purchase a suitable
Insurance policy.

Campbell Irvine Direct Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential. If you have not already arranged cover,
please contact our recommended Travel Insurance providers
www.campbellirvinedirect.com/explore who offer Travel insurance
specifically designed to cover travel with Explore or call Campbell Irvine
direct on 0207 938 1734.
Explore Worldwide is an Introducer Appointed representative of
Campbell Irvine Ltd who are authorised and regulated by the Financial
Conduct Authority.

What about Foreign Office Advice?

Explore is a fully bonded Tour Operator licensed by the Civil Aviation
Authority (CAA) and by ABTOT. We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s
Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2595).
All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays* in this brochure or on our website
are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay, you will be
supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that
everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please
see our booking conditions for further information or for more information
about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.atol.org.uk/
ATOLCertificate
*The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected
providing they are made available in the UK.
As a member of the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers
Trust Limited (ABTOT), Explore has provided a bond to meet the
requirements of the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package
No. 5207
Tours Regulations 1992. In the event of Explore’s insolvency,
protection is provided for non-flight packages commencing in and returning to
the UK and other non-flight packages excluding pre-arranged travel to and from
your destination. Please note that packages booked outside the UK are only
protected when purchased directly with Explore Worldwide Ltd. In the above
circumstances, if you have not yet travelled you may claim a refund, or if you
have already travelled, you may claim repatriation to the starting point of your
non-flight package.

The Association of Independent Tour Operators
AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies.
Its member companies, usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas
holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality
and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in
all aspects of tour operating.

Professional Service and Continual Improvements

Exclusive Membership

Monitoring Standards

AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be
satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members
are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high
operational standards and conduct.

Financial Security

An AITO member is required to arrange financial protection for all holidays
and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by
customers with the member under the AITO logo. This financial protection
applies to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and
to most overseas customers who have booked directly with the member.
In doing so, the member must comply with UK Government regulations.
Members are required to submit details of their financial protection
arrangements to AITO on a regular basis.

Accurate Brochures / Web Sites

All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other
publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays
and services offered.

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5048

All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in
regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to
review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always
welcome suggestions for improving standards.
AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should
receive a post-holiday questionnaire, the results of which are scrutinised by
the Association.

Sustainable Tourism

All members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s Sustainable Tourism
guidelines, which recognise the social, economic and environmental
responsibilities of tour operating.

Customer Relations

AAll members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their
customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO
member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, AITO’s low-cost
Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to
bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion. Explore is a member
of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. To contact the association
visit www.aito.com

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

Passports and Visas
British and Irish passport holder information

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport,
with the correct validity and appropriate number of blank pages for your chosen
destination. You must also have all visas and vaccination certificates that are
necessary to enter or pass through any countries involved in the journey or trip.
Visa requirements are listed in individual Trip Notes, but please note that this
information is subject to change. If required, visas can be obtained through the
Explore Visa Service or the relevant embassy or consulate.

Visas

Visa requirements should be confirmed with the relevant embassy or consulate.
Unless otherwise stated (see ‘Y’ below), visas are not required for tourist visits of
up to 30 days.
General Note: Some countries refuse admission to travellers not meeting their
accepted standards of dress or appearance (even if they hold a visa). Entry
may also be refused to certain countries if your passport bears stamps or visas
(valid or expired) for Israel. Please note all visa and vaccination information was
compiled in August 2016.

Visa Swift

We have partnered with Visa Swift; a company who specialise in visa processing.
Please visit their website to download visa application forms, follow links to
important embassy websites or make general enquiries about their visa service.
Visa Swift also offers a full range of passport services including; passport
renewals, second passports and replacement passports. The Visa Swift
service is easy to use, simply go to their website and enter the trip that you are
travelling on. The website will then tell you which visas you need for your trip. At
any time, you can track the progress of your visa application online.
Please call 0207 405 1616 for more information or visit the Visa Swift site:
www.visaswift.com/explore.aspx

Immigration advice

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when
travelling overseas with any person under the age of 18. Please check
requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of
travel if this applies to your party.

Please note it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct, current
information in good time before departure and that you act on it.

Inoculation and Health Requirements
Country

Visas

A summary of requirements is listed in the chart. We stress that the following
information is intended for quick reference only.

Immunisation

UK
citizens

Minimum time
required to issue

Yellow
Fever

Albania

-

-

-

Andorra

-

-

-

Argentina

-

-

R

Hepatitis Typhoid Others Malaria
A

R

R

-

-

-

-

-

-

R

R

-

R

Austria

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Burma

Y

4 days

F

R

R

D

R

Cambodia (1)

Y

On arrival

F

R

R

D

R

Canada (2)

Y

-

-

-

-

-

-

Chile

-

-

-

R

R

-

R

China (3)

Y

4 days

F

R

R

D

R*

Costa Rica

-

-

F

R

R

D

R

Croatia

-

-

-

R

R

D

-

Cuba (4)

Y

1 week

-

R

R

-

-

Cyprus

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Estonia

-

-

-

R

-

-

-

Ethiopia (5)

Y

On arrival

FR

R

R

DM

R

France

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Georgia

-

-

-

R

R

D

-

Germany

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Greece

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

India

Y

4 days

F

R

R

D

R*

Italy

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Jordan (6)

Y

On arrival

F

R

R

-

-

Latvia

-

-

-

-

-

D

-

Lithuania

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Madagascar

Y

On arrival

F

R

R

D

R

Morocco

-

-

-

R

R

-

-

Nepal

Y

On arrival

F

R

R

D

R

New Zealand

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Nicaragua

-

-

F

R

R

D

R

North Cyprus (7)

-

-

R

R

-

-

-

Peru (8)

-

-

R

R

R

-

R

Portugal (Maderia &
Azores)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Romania

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Slovakia

-

-

-

R

-

-

-

South Africa (9)

-

-

F

R

R

-

R*

Spain

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Sri Lanka

Y

2 days

F

R

R

D

-

Switzerland

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Tanzania (10)

Y

On arrival

FR

R

R

-

R

Turkey (11)

Y

-

-

R

R

D

-

USA (12)

Y

3 days

-

-

-

-

-

Venezuela

-

-

FR

R

R

D

R

Vietnam (13)

Y

-

F

R

R

D

R

Visas and Immunisations Quick Reference Chart

A summary of requirements is listed in the chart. We stress that the following
information is intended for quick reference only.
Y = YES, visa required.
R = Immunisation/protection normally recommended.
R* = Protection recommended for travel to some areas – please check with
your healthcare provider.
F = Valid International Certificate of Vaccination against Yellow Fever required
only if coming from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
M = Meningitis. Immunisation may be recommended depending on area visited
and time of year.
D = Diphtheria. Immunisation recommended in some circumstances, seek
medical advice.
For more information on the subject of vaccinations and health protection, check
your individual Trip Notes or consult your booking agent. Further information can
be found at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk.
For country-specific advice go to http://nathnac.net – an excellent source
of information on health risks. Ask your medical practitioner for the latest
information and allow time to obtain the appropriate vaccinations.
Cholera vaccinations are not officially required by any country. However,
in practice, a cholera vaccination certificate may be asked for by border
officials when arriving from, or travelling into, an infected area: especially at
land borders. Please see Trip Notes for details. The UK Department of Health
recommends immunisation against tetanus and polio for all countries.
Vaccinations: Please note that some inoculation programmes require
two injections, administered four weeks apart. You should leave plenty of
time for this. As a general rule, please note that health requirements and
recommendations may change and you must check the current requirements in
good time before departure.
For holidays in the EU / EEA you should obtain an EHIC (European Health
Insurance Card) before departure, from the Department of Health. This is
available by telephone (0300 330 1350) or online at www.ehic.org.uk An EHIC
is not, however, a substitute for appropriate travel insurance.
Special notes (1) Visa may also be obtained on arrival. (2) From March 2016 any visitor to
Canada will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) prior to travel. (3) If you intend to
travel to China after visiting Tibet, note that any China visa already obtained will have been
cancelled on entering Tibet (Trip Ref TB). (4) You must have a tourist card pre departure - tourist
cards can be issued by Explore or Cuban Consul. (5) Visas are available on arrival at Addis
Ababa Airport. For any other arrival points you should obtain a visa in advance. (6) Visa fee
waived if arriving and departing under certain conditions, otherwise visa issued on arrival. (7)
Tetanus booster recommended. (8) Valid International Certificate of Vaccination against Yellow
Fever required if arriving after transiting infected/endemic area or if travelling on Amazon
extension (Peru). (9) Passport must have two clear blank pages for entry stamp. Please note:
Adults travelling with children into or out of South Africa may be asked to show additional
documentation in order to travel with a minor. More information can be found at http://www.gov.
uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa and www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa. (10)
Single entry visa only on arrival. (11) Tetanus booster recommended. Visa can be purchased
through www.evisa.gov.tr. It is advisable to print a paper copy to take with you. (12) Visas not
required provided entering by sea or air on a carrier participating in the Visa Waiver Program.
It is compulsory for all travellers to the US to provide their personal details online using the
Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) well in advance of travel (and not less than
72hrs before travel). (13) No visa required for British nationals making a single entry before
30JUN17 and not staying for longer than 14 days.

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135

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Booking Conditions
Please read carefully:
Explore Worldwide Ltd (‘the Company’, “we”, “us” and “our”) accepts bookings subject to
the following conditions. Except where expressly stated, these conditions only apply to trip
arrangements booked by you with us and which we agree to make, provide or perform (as
applicable) as part of our contract with you. All references in these conditions to “trip”, “booking”,
“contract” or “arrangements” mean such trip arrangements unless otherwise stated. Please note:
the information appearing in the section headed “Frequently Asked Questions” in our brochure or
in these or any comparable sections and any other relevant information on our website also form
part of your contract with us. References in these conditions to such sections include the comparable
sections or information on our website.
1. Your trip contract

The contract is between the Company and you (“Explore
Worldwide” and “you” in these conditions), being any
person travelling or intending to travel on a trip operated
by us including any person who is added or substituted
after booking. We both agree that English law (and no
other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim
or other matter of any description which arises between
us (except as set out below). We both also agree that
any dispute, claim or other matter of any description (and
whether or not involving any personal injury) which arises
between us must be dealt with by the Courts of England,
Wales, Scotland and Northern Island only. No employee
of the Company other than a director has authority to
vary or omit any of these terms. No promise of a discount
or refund will be binding on us unless confirmed by us in
writing.

to do so, we collect the necessary deposit on the basis
that the price you have agreed to pay will be the one
applicable to your holiday after confirmation of all costs.
Once we have confirmation of all applicable costs, we will
issue a confirmation which will show the confirmed price.
This price may be higher or lower than the estimated
price. It is at this point that our price guarantee will take
effect. Any such difference will not be a surcharge and,
if an increase, will be payable in full. If, however, any
increase between the estimated price and the confirmed
price shown on your revised invoice is greater than 10%
of the estimated price, you may cancel your holiday and
receive a full refund of all monies you have paid us other
than any insurance premiums and amendment fees /
charges providing you notify us in writing of your wish to
do so within 7 days. No compensation will be payable in
this situation.

2. To secure your booking

3. Payment for your trip

(Please refer to Clause 17 “Late Bookings”)
To secure a booking, we or our authorised travel agent
must receive payment of the minimum deposit of 10% of
the total trip price, per person, (or full payment if booking
within 60 days of the start of your trip or at an earlier
stage for some trips). A higher deposit will be payable if
any supplier(s) requires additional payment at the time
of booking / prior to balance due date. On occasions,
full payment for a service such as your flights may be
required at the time of booking. The applicable eposit
will be confirmed at the time of booking. See also “How to
Book” section. All clients (including anyone who is added
or substituted at a later date), whether booking in person,
by telephone, via our website, by e-mail or facsimile or by
any other means, will be deemed to have agreed to the
following four conditions:
a) they have read and accepted our Booking Conditions
and general information pages contained in our brochure
and/or on our website.
b) they appreciate and accept the risks involved in
adventure travel.
c) they do not suffer from any pre-existing medical
condition or disability which may prevent them from
actively participating in the trip. If any person suffers from
any medical condition or disability which will or may
affect their trip arrangements, please contact us before
making your booking to discuss your requirements.
d) the person making the booking confirms that he/she is
at least 18 years old and has full authority to enter into a
contract on the basis of these conditions on behalf of all
persons named on the booking and confirms that all such
persons are fully aware of and accept these conditions.
With the exception of self-guided trips (see below), a
booking is accepted and becomes definite only from the
date when we issue a confirmation invoice to you or your
authorised travel agent. It is at this point that a contract
between us comes into existence.
If you book online, any acknowledgement of your
booking request we send to you in the meantime is not
a confirmation of your booking. Before your booking is
confirmed and a contract comes into force, we reserve the
right to increase or decrease holiday prices. Where our
allocation of air seats has been fully utilised or where it
is not possible to offer an air seat from an allocation, we
reserve the right to pass on any extra costs incurred. We
reserve the right to decline any booking at our discretion.
We will communicate with you by e-mail. You must
therefore check your e-mails on a regular basis. We may
also contact you by telephone and/or post if we cannot,
for whatever reason, contact you by e-mail. Certain
documents may need to be sent by post. References
in these conditions to “send” and “in writing” or similar
include communication by e-mail. You should contact
us by e-mail if you need to do so for any of the reasons
mentioned in these booking conditions (for example, to
request an amendment).
Self-guided trips: We may not be in a position to confirm
the costs for all services forming part of your self-guided
holiday at the time of booking until your services are
confirmed. Where any costs cannot be confirmed, we
will provide you with an estimated price for your holiday
which will be based on anticipated rates and costs. If you
wish to proceed with the booking and we are in a position

136

The balance of all monies due must be received by us or
our authorised travel agent not later than 60 days before
the start of your trip. For certain trips, full payment must
be received sooner. We will tell you at the time of booking
when this is the case. If you don’t pay your balance by
the due date, we reserve the right to treat your booking
as cancelled and cancellation charges will apply. Any
monies paid by you to an authorised travel agent for trips
operated by us are held by the agent on our behalf. You
can pay by cheque, credit or debit card. We accept Visa
and Mastercard for which a credit card fee of 1.52% is
payable (£1.52 per £100) for all payments paid to Explore
by credit card. We reserve the right to change this charge
if the card issuer or merchant provider’s charges to us
vary. We will advise you if this happens before taking
any payment by credit card. This fee does not apply if
payment is made by debit card.

4. If you change your booking

a) A confirmed booking can be changed or transferred
free of charge to a different departure date or trip, up to
60 days prior to departure. Thereafter all changes will be
treated as cancellations and subject to the cancellation
charges below. Changes are subject to availability and
are limited to one transfer during the lifetime of your
booking. It is not possible to rebook back onto the original
departure once you have either transferred or cancelled
your booking. You can request a credit voucher for the
amount paid in respect of any cancelled booking, less
any non-refundable charges incurred by us or imposed by
our suppliers. This must be redeemed within 12 months of
issue against a new booking. No further credit vouchers
can be requested against the new booking. The voucher
cannot be exchanged for cash. No cash refund will be
provided if the cost of the new booking is less than the
value of the credit voucher.
b) If you are unable to travel, in circumstances which we
consider reasonable, the booking or your place on the
booking may be transferred to another suitable person
(introduced by you) up to 60 days prior to departure. Any
costs or charges incurred by us or incurred or imposed by
any supplier(s) in making the transfer must be paid before
the transfer can be made. Any overdue balance payment
must also be paid. For flight inclusive bookings, you must
pay the charges levied by the airline concerned. As most
airlines do not permit name changes after tickets have
been issued for any reason, these charges are likely to be
the full cost of the flight / an alternative flight.

5. If you cancel your booking

Should you wish to cancel, cancellation charges will be
imposed. These are calculated from the day written or
verbal notification is received by us or our authorised
travel agent as a percentage of the total trip price per
person cancelling, excluding any amendment charges
and insurance premiums. The cancellation charges
shown below are those which will apply to most trips.
However, some suppliers have conditions which require
the payment of higher or different charges (including the
imposition of 100% cancellation charges well in advance
of the normal balance due date) which you will have to
pay in the event of cancellation. You will be advised at the
time of booking if this is the case for your trip.
a) 60 and more days before trip start date – loss of
deposit

No. 5207
The air holidays in this brochure are
ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation
Authority.
Our ATOL number is 2595.

b) 59-42 days before trip start date – 30% or loss of
deposit if higher
c) 41-28 days before trip start date – 60%
d) 27-14 days before trip start date – 90%
e) Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Amendment charges and insurance premiums are not
refundable if you cancel your booking. We strongly
recommend that comprehensive travel insurance is taken
out which includes cover against cancellation charges.
Depending on the reason for the cancellation, you may
be able to reclaim the cancellation charges (less any
applicable excess) under the terms of your insurance
policy. In the event of the cancellation of a booking
where you are liable to pay to us cancellation charges
in excess of the amount already paid to us at the time of
cancellation, you cannot transfer or add these charges
to another booking or use any amounts paid to us in
relation to the cancelled booking by way of part payment
for another booking. Part cancellation of a booking may
result in additional costs being payable by the remaining
members of your party. Please also see clause 4b.

6. If you have a complaint

If you have a complaint about any of your trip
arrangements, you must tell both the relevant supplier
and our representative at the time. It is only if we and
the supplier know about problems that there will be the
opportunity to put things right. If you don’t complain on the
spot this may affect your ability to claim compensation.
If your complaint cannot be resolved on trip you should
notify us in writing within 28 days of the end of your trip.
If we are unable to mutually resolve your complaint you
may call upon the low cost AITO Independent Dispute
Settlement Service (details on request). Claims which
exceed £2,500 per person or £10,000 per booking or
claims which apply principally or exclusively in respect
of (or as a consequence of) illness or physical injury
are not admissible for settlement under the service.
Alternately you can refer your complaint for arbitration
under the ABTOT Travel Industry Arbitration Service. An
Independent Arbitrator will review the documents relating
to any complaint and deliver a binding decision to bring
the matter to a close. Details of this scheme are available
from The Travel Industry Arbitration Service, administered
by Dispute Settlement Services Ltd at 9 Savill Road,
Lindfield, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH16 2NY or
from ABTOT, Tower 42, Old Broad Street, London EC2N 1
HG. This scheme cannot however decide in cases where
the sums claimed exceed £1,500 per person or £7,500
per booking, or for claims which are solely or mainly in
respect of physical injury or illness or the consequence
thereof. Please also see clause 1: Your Trip Contract.

7. Passports, visas and vaccinations

You are responsible for arranging, and must have, a
valid, acceptable passport and any visas and vaccination
certificates required for your entire journey and trip. Any
information we give about these matters or related items
(climate, clothing, baggage, personal gear etc) is given
in good faith but without responsibility on our part. We
regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused
entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure
on your part to carry all required documentation. If your
failure to have any necessary travel or other documents
results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being
imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us
accordingly.

8. Travel and cancellation insurance

You must have travel insurance when you travel with us.
You and your belongings are at all times solely at your
own risk. You are wholly responsible for arranging your
own insurance. You must ensure that you have personal
travel insurance with protection for the full duration of
the trip in respect of at least medical expenses, injury,
death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment, with
adequate and appropriate cover including medical
emergency helicopter repatriation. If you make your
own arrangements you should ensure that there are no
exclusion clauses limiting or excluding protection for the
type of activities included in your trip. You must ensure
that all travel insurance purchased meets your particular
requirements and you should arrange supplementary
insurance if need be.

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

BOOKING CONDITIONS

9. Consumer protection

We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s License issued by the
Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2595). When you
buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday*
from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists the
flight, accommodation, car hire and/or other services that
are financially protected, where you can get information
on what this means for you and who to contact if things
go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL
certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the
ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases,
where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for
reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may
provide you with services you have bought or a suitable
alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept
that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder
will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any
money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract
to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree
that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an
alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled
to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit
card issuer where applicable).
If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate,
are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable
alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or
otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of
the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer
a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree
that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign
absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have
or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision
of the services, including any claim against us, the travel
agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable).You
also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to
another body, if that other body has paid sums you have
claimed under the ATOL scheme.
*The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are
ATOL protected providing they are made available in the
UK. For further information visit the ATOL website at www.
atol.org.uk.
As a member of the Association of Bonded Travel
Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT), Explore has provided
a bond to meet the requirements of the Package Travel,
Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992.
In the event of Explore’s insolvency, protection is provided
for non-flight packages commencing in and returning
to the UK and other non-flight packages excluding prearranged travel to and from your destination. Please note
that packages booked outside the UK are only protected
when purchased directly with Explore Worldwide Ltd.
In the above circumstances, if you have not already
travelled, you may claim repatriation to the starting point
of your non-flight package.

10. Trip participation and client responsibility

You agree to accept the authority and decisions of our
employees, Trip Leaders and agents whilst on trip with
us. If in the opinion of any such person(s) or any other
person in a position of authority (such as, for example,
an airline pilot or hotel manager), your health, level of
fitness or conduct at any time before or during a trip is
endangering or appears likely to endanger your health
or wellbeing or any third party (including any other
clients of the Company) or the safe, comfortable or happy
progress of the trip, you may be excluded from all or part
of the trip without refund or recompense. Where you are
excluded, we will have no further responsibility towards
you (including any return travel arrangements) and we
will not meet any expenses or costs incurred as a result
of the exclusion. In the case of ill health, we may make
such arrangements we see fit and recover the costs
thereof from you. If you commit an illegal act (including,
for example, causing any damage) you may be excluded
from the trip and we shall cease to have responsibility
to/for you as above. No refund will be given for any
unused services. When you book with us, you accept
responsibility for any damage or loss caused by you or
any member of your party. Full payment for any such
damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not precisely
known) must be made direct to the accommodation
owner or manager or other supplier or to us as soon as
possible. If the actual cost of the loss or damage exceeds
the amount paid where estimated, you must pay the
difference once known. If the actual cost is less than the
amount paid, the difference will be refunded. You will
also be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently
made against us and all costs incurred by us (including
our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result
of your actions. You should ensure you have appropriate
travel insurance to protect you if this situation arises.
If you have any medical condition or disability which
may affect your active participation in your trip or the trip
arrangements of any other person or have any special
requirements as a result of any medical condition or
disability (including any which affect the booking process),
please tell us before you confirm your booking so that
we can assist you in considering the suitability of the
proposed trip and/or making the booking. In any event,
you must give us full details at the time of booking and
whenever any change in the condition or disability occurs.
You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition
or disability which may affect your active participation

in your trip or the trip arrangements of any other person
develops after your booking has been confirmed.

11. If we change your trip

While we will do our best to operate all trips as
advertised, we reserve the right to change and correct
errors in any of the facilities, services or itineraries
described in this brochure and/or on our website at any
time before or after your booking is confirmed.
Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a
significant change. If a significant change has to be made,
we will inform you as soon as reasonably possible, if
there is time before departure.
For “Guaranteed Departures”, we promise not to make
any significant changes to the “land only” itinerary
unless we are forced to do so by force majeure (see
clause 13). However, if a trip, including a “Guaranteed
Departure” consists of a group size of 3 or less, we
reserve the right to substitute your Explore Leader with
one or more local representatives and we may utilise
public transport and/or taxis for the whole or part of your
trip instead of the advertised trip vehicle. Where this is
the case, we will tell you as soon as we are able. Any
such change(s) will not be a significant change. This
guarantee does not, however, apply to any international
or domestic flights which may be subject to change or
cancellation in accordance with these conditions. A
significant change is a change made before departure
which we can reasonably expect to have a major effect
on your trip. Significant changes are likely to include
the following changes when made before departure;
a change of the outward or return international flight
departure time to/from the UK (where we have booked
your international flight) or of the duration of your trip
(excluding international flights) of 12 or more hours, a
change of UK departure airport (except between any
London airport including Stansted and Luton) to one which
is more inconvenient for you (where we have booked
your international flight) and, a major itinerary re-routing.
Please note, a change of airline, any advertised mode of
transport, named accommodation, flight time(s) for any
flight other than any international flight to / from the UK or
of the flight time(s) for the international flight to / from the
UK we have booked this for you of less than 12 hours are
not significant changes unless otherwise expressly stated.
If advised of a significant change before departure
you will have the choice of accepting the changed
arrangements (at additional cost if applicable), purchasing
another available trip from us (paying or receiving a
refund in respect of any difference in price) or cancelling
the trip with a full refund of all monies paid to us. If we
have to make a significant change before departure
we will as a minimum, where compensation is due, pay
you the compensation payments set out in the table
below depending on the circumstances and when the
significant change is notified to you or your travel agent
subject to the following exception. Compensation will
not be payable and no liability beyond offering the
above mentioned choices can be accepted where we
are forced to make a change as a result of unusual
and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control,
the consequences of which we could not have avoided
even with all due care. Such circumstances are likely
to include those listed in clause 13 “Force Majeure”. No
compensation will be payable and the above options
will not be available where a change is a minor one. We
regret we cannot meet any visa, vaccination or similar
costs in the event of any change or cancellation by us.
Similarly, as you are advised only to book fully flexible
connecting transport and other arrangements (such as pre
or post trip accommodation) which can be cancelled or
changed without charge, we cannot pay any cancellation,
amendment or other charges you may incur in relation to
any arrangements which you have to change or cancel as
a result of any change to your trip.
Period of notification given Compensation to you or your
travel agent per person
More than 42 days: Nil
41-28 days: £20
27-14 days: £30
13 days or less before the date of travel: £40
Very rarely, we may be forced by “force majeure” (see
clause 13) to change or terminate your trip after departure
but before the scheduled end of your time away. This
is extremely unlikely but if this situation does occur, we
regret we will be unable to make any refunds (unless
we obtain any refunds from our suppliers), pay you any
compensation or meet any costs or expenses you incur
as a result.

12. If we cancel your trip

We reserve the right to cancel a trip in any circumstances
but will not cancel a trip less than 6 weeks before the
start of the trip except for force majeure (see clause 13),
or your failure to make all payments (including the final
balance and any surcharge) when due. Please note,
except for “Guaranteed Departures”, our trips require a
minimum number of participants to enable us to operate
them. If any trip does not have the minimum number of
participants required to make it commercially viable, we
are entitled to cancel it. We will notify you or your travel
agent of cancellation for this reason not less than 6 weeks

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before the start of your trip. For “Guaranteed Departures”,
there is no minimum group size and we will not cancel
the “land only” itinerary unless forced to do so by force
majeure (see clause 13). However, for groups with less
than 3 participants, we reserve the right to make changes
to the Explore Leader or form of transport as referred to
in clause 11. If we have to cancel, we will tell you as soon
as possible. If there is time to do so before departure and
the cancellation does not result from your failure to pay,
we will offer you the choice of purchasing an alternative
trip offered as a result of consolidation or another
available trip from us (in either case, paying or receiving
a refund in respect of any difference in price) or receiving
a full refund of all monies paid to us excluding Annual
Insurance premiums if applicable. We regret we cannot
meet any visa, vaccination or similar costs in the event of
any change or cancellation by us. Similarly, as you are
advised only to book fully flexible transport and other
arrangements which can be cancelled or changed without
charge, we cannot pay any cancellation, amendment or
other charges you may incur in relation to any transport or
other arrangements which you have to change or cancel
as a result of the cancellation of your trip.
In addition, we will as a minimum, where compensation
is due, pay you the compensation set out in the table in
clause 11 above depending on the circumstances and
when the cancellation is notified to you or your travel
agent subject to the following exceptions. Compensation
will not be payable and no liability beyond offering
the above mentioned choices can be accepted where
(1) we are forced to cancel as a result of unusual and
unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the
consequences of which we could not have avoided even
with all due care (such circumstances are likely to include
those listed in clause 13 “Force Majeure”) or (2) we have
to cancel because the minimum number of participants
necessary for us to operate your trip has not been
reached (see above). No compensation will be payable
and the above options will not be available if we cancel
as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement
of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as
paying on time).

13. Force majeure

Except where otherwise expressly stated in these
conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay
any compensation where the performance or prompt
performance of our obligations under our contract with
you is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer
any injury, damage, loss or expense of any nature as
a result of “force majeure”. In these conditions, “force
majeure” means any event which we or the supplier of
the service(s) in question could not, even with all due
care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include whether
actual or threatened war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity,
industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse
weather conditions, disease, fire and all similar events
outside our control.

14. Our responsibility for your trip

Your booking is accepted on the understanding that
you appreciate and accept the possible risks inherent in
adventure travel and that you undertake the trips, treks
or expeditions featured in our programme at your own
volition.
(1) We promise to make sure that the trip arrangements
we have agreed to make, perform or provide, as
applicable, as part of our contract with you are made,
performed or provided with reasonable skill and care.
This means that, subject to these conditions and the other
information which forms part of your contract with us, we
will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death
or personal injury or your contracted trip arrangements
are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a
result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents
or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making,
performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted
trip arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to
show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if
you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will
only be responsible for what our employees, agents and
suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting
within the course of their employment (for employees) or
carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents
and suppliers).
(2) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death,
loss (including loss possessions and loss of enjoyment),
damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any
description whatsoever which results from any of the
following: the act(s) and/or omission(s) you or any member(s) of your
party or
the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not
connected with the provision of your trip and which were
unforeseeable or unavoidable or
‘force majeure’ as defined in clause 13 above
(3) Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any
services which do not form part of our contract. This
includes, for example, any additional services or facilities
which any supplier agrees to provide for you where the
services or facilities are not advertised by us and we
have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract.
Any optional excursions or activities booked during your

137

BOOKING CONDITIONS

holiday do not form part of our contract as these are all
arranged for you directly by the suppliers concerned –
please see clause 15: Optional Excursions and activities
below. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us
on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere,
we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set
out above and we do not have any greater or different
liability to you.
(4) The promises we make to you about the services
we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our
contract – and the laws and regulations of the country
in which your claim or complaint occurred – will be used
as the basis for deciding whether the services in question
had been properly provided. Please bear in mind that
standards of, for example, safety, hygiene, and quality
may vary throughout the destinations, services and
transport your trip involves and may be lower than or
different to those applicable in the UK. If the particular
services which gave rise to the claim or complaint
complied with the local laws and regulations applicable
to those services at the time, the services will be treated
as having been properly provided. This will be the case
even if the services did not comply with the laws and
regulations of the UK which would have applied had
those services been provided in the UK. The exception to
this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence
of a safety feature which might lead a reasonable
holidaymaker to refuse to take the trip in question.
(5) As set out in these conditions, we limit the maximum
amount we may have to pay you for any claims you may
make against us. We do not, however, limit or exclude
our liability for death or personal injury caused by the
negligence of ourselves or our employees (providing
they were at the time acting within the course of their
employment).
Where we are found liable for loss of and/or damage to
any luggage or personal possessions (including money),
the maximum amount we will have to pay you is £500
per person affected unless a different limitation applies
to your claim under clause 14(6) below. You must ensure
you have appropriate travel insurance to protect your
personal belongings.
For all other claims which do not involve death or
personal injury, if we are found liable to you on any basis,
the maximum amount we will have to pay you is twice
the price (excluding insurance premiums and amendment
charges) paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in
total unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under
clause 14 (6) below. This maximum amount will only be
payable where everything has gone wrong and you have
not received any benefit at all from your trip.
(6) Where any claim or part of a claim (including those
involving death or personal injury) concerns or is based
on any travel arrangements (including the process of
getting on and/or off the transport concerned) provided by
any air, sea, rail or road carrier, the maximum amount of
compensation we will have to pay you will be limited. The
most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of
a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the
most the carrier concerned would have to pay under the
international convention or regulation which applies to
the travel arrangements in question were that claim made
against it (for example, the Warsaw Convention 1929 as
amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention
1999 for international travel by air and/or for airlines
with an operating licence granted by an EU country,
the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002
for national and international travel by air, the Athens
Convention 1974 for international travel by sea and COTIF,
the Convention on International Travel by Rail. Please
note: where a carrier would not be obliged to make
any payment to you under the applicable international
convention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a
claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to
you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any
payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you
have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier or
hotelier for the complaint or claim in question. Copies of
the applicable international conventions and regulations
are available from us on request.
(7) Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any
damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description
(1) which on the basis of the information given to us by
you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we
could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we
breached our contract with you or (2) which did not result
from any breach of contract or other fault by ourselves or
our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our
suppliers. Additionally we cannot accept liability for any
expenses or losses incurred by or relating to any business
including self-employed loss of earnings.
(8) You must provide ourselves and our insurers with all
assistance we may reasonably require. You must also
tell us and the supplier concerned about your claim or
complaint as set out in clause 6. If you have a complaint.
if asked to do so, you must transfer to us or our insurers
any rights you have against the supplier or whoever else
is responsible for your claim or complaint (if the person
concerned is under 18, their parent or guardian must do
so). You must also agree to cooperate fully with us and
our insurers if we or our insurers want to enforce any
rights which are transferred.

138

15. Optional excursions and activities

We and our Explore Leaders may provide you with
information (before departure and/or when you are on
holiday) about optional activities and excursions which do
not form part of your pre-booked holiday arrangements
and which are available in the area you are visiting. We
have no involvement in any such activities or excursions
which are not run, supervised or controlled in any way
by us. They are provided by local operators or other
providers who are entirely independent of us and they
may or may not have their own public liability insurance.
They may require a waiver form to be signed. Optional
excursions and activities do not form any part of your
contract with us even where we suggest particular
operators / providers and / or assist you in booking such
activities or excursions in any way. Where an Explore
Leader collects payment for or otherwise assists in
booking any such activity or excursion for you, we and
the Explore Leader act solely as booking agent for the
local operator / provider of the activity or excursion with
whom you will have a contract. The local operator /
provider’s terms and conditions will apply. We cannot
accept any liability on any basis in relation to such
activities or excursions and the acceptance of liability
contained in clause 14(1) of our booking conditions will not
apply to them. We do not, however, exclude liability for
the negligence of ourselves or our employees resulting in
your death or personal injury.
We do not guarantee that any optional activity or
excursion mentioned in our brochure, on our website or
elsewhere will be available to book during your holiday
and / or will operate as advertised as these services
do not form part of our contract and are not under our
control. They may not be available for various reasons.
Any prices given in advance are indicative only. We will
not be liable if you cannot, for whatever reason, book any
such activity or excursion or if the activity or excursion
does not operate as advertised.

16. Flights/Transport/Delays

The timings of air, sea, road or rail departures are
estimates only. Subject to clause 11 “If we change your
trip”, we cannot accept any liability for any change,
cancellation or delay in your transportation from or to the
UK or during your trip whether any change, cancellation
or delay is caused by adverse weather conditions,
rescheduling by a transport supplier, airline or airport
authority, action by air traffic controllers, mechanical
breakdown, industrial action or any other event or
circumstance outside our control. Where long flight delays
result in lost trip time, no refunds are given by hotels or
suppliers. Similarly, except where the Denied Boarding
Regulations apply, airlines do not offer compensation
for flight delays. It is in recognition of the above that our
travel insurance policy offers compensation for flight
delays over 12 hours (not applicable to flights within a
trip itinerary). However, at their discretion your carrier will
endeavour to reduce the inconvenience of any delay by
providing meals and accommodation, as appropriate for
the time of day or night (dependent on local availability),
if you are delayed for more than 12 hours. If you incur
payments for any services in the event of a delay, we
will not accept responsibility for payment unless we have
given our prior consent.
If your flight is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket
is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline,
depending on the circumstance, the airline may be
required to pay you compensation, refund the cost of your
flight and/or provide you with accommodation and/or
refreshments under the EC Regulations No 261/2004 – the
Denied Boarding Regulations 2004 where applicable you
must pursue the airline directly for the compensation or
other payments due to you. All sums you receive or are
entitled to receive from the airline concerned by virtue
of these Regulations represent the full amount of your
entitlement to compensation or any other payment arising
from such cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied
boarding. This includes any disappointment, distress,
inconvenience or effect on any other arrangements.
The fact a delay may entitle you to cancel your flight
does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other
arrangements even where those arrangements have
been made in conjunction with your flight. We have no
liability to make any payment to you in relation to the
Denied Boarding Regulations or in respect of any flight
cancellation or delay, downgrading of any flight ticket
or denial of any boarding as the full amount of your
entitlement to any compensation or other payment (as
dealt with above) is covered by the airline’s obligations
under the Denied Boarding Regulations. If for any reason,
we make any payment to you or a third party which the
airline is responsible for in accordance with the Denied
Boarding Regulations, you must, when requested, assign
to us the rights you have or had to claim the payment in
question from the airline. If your airline does not comply
with these rules, you should complain to the CAA at caa.
co.uk.

contract between the Company and the client comes into
existence as soon as full payment has been received by
us or our authorised travel agent.

18. Brochure / Website /
Advertising material accuracy

The information contained in our brochure, on our website
and in our other advertising material is believed correct
to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or
publication. However, errors may occasionally occur
and information may subsequently change. You must
therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen trip
(including the price) with us or your travel agent at the
time of booking.
Issue date: September 2016.
Explore Worldwide Ltd.
Registered Office: Nelson House,
55 Victoria Road, Farnborough,
Hampshire, GU14 7PA, UK.
VAT No. 358 7552 13.

Data Protection Privacy Statement
Your privacy is important to us. We will only use the information
that we collect about you lawfully, in accordance with the
Data Protection Act 1998 and Electronic Communications (EC
Directive) Regulations 2003 (“data protection laws”). You confirm
that you will only enter information about yourself and those in
your party and that such information is true.
For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998, we, Explore
Worldwide Limited are a data controller. In order to process
your booking, brochure and Trip Note requests, provide your
trip and to help us provide you with a more personal service,
we need to collect certain personal details from you. These
details will include, where applicable, the names and contact
details of party members, credit/ debit card or other payment
details and special requirements such as those relating to any
disability or medical condition which may affect the chosen trip
arrangements and any dietary restrictions which may disclose
your religious beliefs. If we need any other personal details, we
will tell you before we obtain them from you.
We need to pass on your personal details to the companies
and organisations who need to know them so that your trip
can be provided (for example your airline, hotel, other supplier,
credit/debit card company or bank). Such companies and
organisations may be outside the European Union, Norway,
Iceland or Liechtenstein if your trip is to take place or involves
suppliers outside these countries.
We would also like to store and use your personal details for
future marketing and trip review purposes (for example, sending
you a brochure or details of new features, trips or special offers
which we think may be of interest to you, including by email). All
details you give us in connection with your booking (including
those relating to any disability or medical condition or your
religious beliefs) will be kept by us but we will use only names
and contact details for marketing purposes (unless you have
indicated that you do not wish us to do so).
We may also send you promotional information about selected
third parties’ products and services that may be of interest to
you.
Occasionally we hire other companies to provide services on
our behalf, for example providing holiday reviews and mailing
information to our customers. We only provide those companies
with the personal details relating to our clients which they
require in order to deliver the service. They are prohibited from
using that information for any other purpose. We will ensure that
anyone to whom we pass your details for this reason agrees
to treat it with the same level of protection we are obliged to
provide.
If you do not want us to do any or all of these things, please let
us know as soon as possible.
Except where expressly permitted by the Data Protection Act,
we will only deal with the personal details you give us as set
out above unless you agree otherwise. We have appropriate
security measures in place to protect this information.
You are generally entitled to ask us (by letter or e-mail) what
details of yours are being held or processed, for what purpose
and to whom they may be or have been disclosed. We promise
to respond to your request within 40 days of receiving your
written request and fee. In certain limited circumstances we are
entitled to refuse your request. If you believe that any of your
personal details which we are processing are inaccurate or
incorrect, please contact us immediately.
Please note telephone calls may be recorded for training and
monitoring purposes.
From time-to-time, our staff, customers and suppliers may take
photographs and video footage of trips in progress, including
pictures of our customers. These pictures may be used in future
marketing materials and stored physically and digitally. If you
do not wish for your family to be filmed or for your pictures to be
taken or used in this manner, please advise your Explore Leader
and/or the photographer at the start of your trip.
As our privacy statement may change due to developments
in the law, we would encourage you to re-read our privacy
statement at explore.co.uk/privacy-policy from time to time so
that you are aware of any changes in how we gather and use
personal information.

17. Late bookings

We emphasise the importance of making a booking at the
earliest opportunity, because of the small group nature
of our trips. For bookings received within 6 weeks of your
trip start date (or at an earlier stage for certain trips), the

Call our experts on 01252 883 796

HOW TO BOOK

How
to
book

Book early
Our Walking and
Trekking Adventure
trips fill up quickly, so to
guarantee your choice
of trip and departure
date it is best to book
as early as possible.

3 easy ways to book

1

Book online

at explore.co.uk

2

Over the Phone

3

Local Travel Agent

Call our Adventure Travel
Consultants on 01252 883 796

Visit your local travel agent

Booking Checklist

Payment

✓

Names

Deposit

✓
✓

Advance Passenger Information (API/APIs)

✓
✓
✓
✓

Most airlines now require your full first name, middle name (if you have
one) and surname. These must be provided exactly as they appear on
your passport, otherwise boarding may be denied.
Some governments require you to provide personal information from
your passport, before travel. We will advise you if this is required.

To secure a booking we require a non-refundable deposit of 10% of the trip price.
Occasionally, a higher deposit is required but you will be advised about this
at the time of booking. A higher deposit will be required if any travel partners
require additional payment at the time of booking (or before the date at which
the full balance becomes due). If your travel starts within 60 days of booking, full
payment will be required at the time of booking. Occasionally, full payment for a
particular service (such as your flights) may be required at the time of booking.

Booking conditions

Final Payment

When you book, you will be asked if you have read and understood the
Booking Conditions and FAQ’s (p.132-138) – please note that you are
legally bound to do so. Although many people decide not to read the
small print, you will find that a great deal of useful information is included
within it. We really appreciate you taking the time to do this.

Fitness and Ability

You must be sufficiently fit and healthy to be able to take part in all
included elements of the trip.

Visas

Please leave adequate time to obtain all visas and make sure you have
enough space in your passport for stamps.

Travel Insurance

A final invoice will be sent to you nine weeks before departure. This must be
paid no later than eight weeks before departure.

Cheque, Debit and Credit Cards

You can pay the deposit and final invoice by cheque, credit or debit card. We
accept Visa and Mastercard for which a credit card fee of 1.52% is payable (£1.52
per £100) for all payments paid to Explore by credit card. We reserve the right to
change this charge if the card issuer or merchant provider’s charges to us vary.
We will advise you if this happens before taking any payment by credit card.
This fee does not apply if payment is made by debit card.

Data Protection Legislation

Explore Worldwide Ltd is registered on the UK Data Protection Register in the
UK. For our full data protection and privacy statement please see page 138.

Is mandatory for all customers on all Explore trips.
Please see page 134 or visit explore.co.uk/insurance